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        Cluster Headache Help and Support >> Cluster Headache Specific >> Disability in Canada?
        
(Message started by: lurknsmirk on Mar 31^st, 2007, 2:32am)

Title: Disability in Canada?
Post by lurknsmirk on Mar 31^st, 2007, 2:32am

I have only recently been diagnosed with cluster headaches, although I've suffered with them for over 17 years. I need a little information if at all possible. Firstly, does anyone know if cluster headaches are within the guidelines of receiving disability benefits in Canada? Secondly, are there any local support groups in or around the Brantford area of Ontario, Canada? I could really use a crutch to lean on right now. If not, would anyone be interested in starting one? I can't even handle talking to people who marginalize the pain I go through with these headaches, people who will probably never in their whole lives, feel a tenth of the pain I feel every day for 3 to 6 months of every year. I need to learn how to talk to these people so they don't just think I'm lazy or don't want to work. I even find myself secretly wishing that they had them as well, just for a moment, so they could understand. As you can see, I get depressed about life, I could use a pick me up right about now. I'm not suicidal by any stretch, I've got three beautiful children who I couldn't possibly leave for any reason. I just get depressed because of the way my own family judges me. I am labelled without the means to turn my life around. Can anyone help me?

Title: Re: Disability in Canada?
Post by Grandma_Sweet_Boy on Mar 31^st, 2007, 8:26pm

I don't know of any members in the Brantford area, but we do have some in London and Toronto areas. Not a support group, per se, but sufferers who try to support one another when and where we can.

CPP benefits are very difficult to get and I've not heard of anyone with CH who has ever applied.

You don't outline what you've tried for preventatives or abortives.

Perhaps you could spend a little time in reading all of the tabs to the left of the main board. There is also a letter that can be given to employers, co-workers, and other assorted folks that are in your life.

What kind of support system do you have for yourself - a wife that understands - close friends or family? All of which are very helpful.

Stick around - read lots - ask questions and mostly, read lots. There's a wealth of information here and these good people probably know more than most physicians about this disorder of ours.

Carol