it's been a while  since i posted.  i originally joined because i was facing an "elective" amputation.

i've been back to work for about a year and a half ago.  i  am scheduled to have an ankle replacement this Wednesday.  there is a 15% failure rate, after that the amputation wont be elective.  its not something i am opposed to, just so many unknowns ~ and that's what makes it so scary.

my biggest fear is not being able to afford a prosthetic.   (especially the second or third time; i'm 46 y/o) after my car accident i SHOULD have applied for SSD and didn't ( i was out of work for 2 1/2 years.  this operation (ankle replacement) i am expeced to be out between 2 - 5 months.

i have a (second) part time job as a cashier and was talking to someone who was an amputee , he told me Medicare pays for all of his prosthetic . 

I work for the dept of welfare and the only way you get Medical assit is low income OR considered disabled by Social security (even then you can make too much money) 

i contacted a SSD lawyer and was told i had to be out of work a year to be considered disabled. even though the "first" decision only takes 5 moths, i know  Social security denies almost everyone the first time.  i can't be off for more than 5 months.

does anyone anyone have any help with SSA  or my concern about not being able to afford future prosthetics?

thanks,

cheryl