63-Year-Old Navy Veteran Pipefitter Seeks Government Disability Grant
by Ben Duke
(USA)
I'm a 63-year-old Navy veteran and I've worked hard my whole life. I've been in construction as a pipefitter in nuclear power plants all over the U.S.
I served in the Merchant Marines and worked for the city of Houston, Texas for several years. I was diagnosed 19 years ago with Type 2 diabetes, a disease that claimed my mother's life.
I continued working though, because that is all I've ever known. I have since lost vision in my left eye because of the disease.
Later, I was diagnosed with asbestosis most likely from inhalation in the refineries and plants I've worked in.
Still I pressed on because I had no other choice. Recently, I suffered a massive heart attack and had to have triple bypass surgery. They then had to put stints in.
I'm now totally disabled. I am on disability, but I can barely eke by on what I was awarded.
I sometimes have to borrow money from relatives to pay for my prescriptions and/or buy diabetic needs such as specialized dietary foods, which are relatively more expensive than ordinary foods.
I have been very proud that my whole life I was able to provide for my family. I find it very humbling to ask for help, but I will be most grateful for anything I may be considered for.
