Huntington’s Disease is a condition that can ultimately prevent people from working. People suffering from it often apply for Social Security disability benefits, and in fact, it is scheduled to be added to the Social Security Administration’s compassionate allowances list.
Huntington’s Disease typically shortens a person’s life by about 20 years. It’s an incurable condition that causes muscle coordination to deteriorate, and it can also lead to cognitive difficulties. It causes neurons to die off and often mimics symptoms of various psychiatric problems, such as manic depression. About 1 out of every 10,000 people have the disease, which is genetic.
If someone’s parent has the disease, they have a 50 percent chance of developing the disease. The grandfather of one teenage girl had Huntington’s, but her own father doesn’t want to be tested, and neither do the 17-year-old girl’s two brothers. But she would like to know what her future may hold so that she can plan ahead.
But rather than worry about herself, the teen decided to organize a benefit concert to raise awareness of the disease. Friends of her family, as well as members of a local church, helped her organize and make brochures. Several local musicians will perform at the concert, where food will be provided to attendees as well.
The teen has the right attitude: Every bit of awareness helps those with the disease one way or another. Hopefully someday there will be a cure.
Source: Daily News, “Fenwick teen organizes benefit to battle Huntington’s Disease,” Stacie Rose, Aug. 21, 2012
• Our firm handles similar situations to what was discussed in this post. If you would like to learn more about our practice, please visit our Chicago Social Security disability page.
Tags: Huntington's Disease, social security disability insurance
