Since I haven't updated this in a while, figure it is about time. I had a hearing scheduled for mid-June. However my lawyers dropped me about a month before the hearing (that is what I get for using the internet to get a lawyer). However, thanks to some friends, was able to find a local lawyer willing to take m case even with the little time left before the hearing. The first thing he did was schedule a test that would show how bad my back i and how it would affect my ability to work (omething my original lawyers had never told me about). This test showed that, at most, I can stand up to 2 hours a day and sit up to 6 hours a day, which pretty much was right alog with what I had found out on my own.
At the hearing, the expert on disabilities even told the judge that with the estrictions shown in the test that there was no way I could be gainfully employed.
Unfortunately I was again denied disability, mainly do to the judge interpretting the day listed in the test results as an 8 hour work day. My lawyer decied to appeal based on the fact that the judge's decision did not agree with the test results.
As far as my back health, it is still not good and per haps has even gotten a little worse since the last ime I updated this thread (although it may just be due to weather changes). My depression, however, seems to be doing much better, even with the disability denial. I think it is in part because the doctor at the local free clinic has found the right med for me (and I can't praise that doctor enough ashe seems to really care about each of his patients more than most doctors I have seen before) and the fact that my friends and family hve done a lot to keep my spirit up. And since my older brother has moved back to the area and we have started playing pen-and-paper RPGs again, have a little moreto do each week than just laying around my apartment and reading.

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To those that understand, I extend my hand. To the doubtful I demand, take me as I am!