So I have excellent news… I finally received my first social security disability payment! It couldn’t have come at a better time. Yesterday was my boyfriend’s birthday and we were flat broke. He went to Ihop for free breakfast and gave it to me because I hadn’t eaten in 24 hours. He went to Firehouse Subs for a free sandwich for lunch and split it with me. We were both feeling pretty crappy and then he suggested I check my bank account since I’m expecting disability any time. Well, I didn’t think it would be there. I assumed I would receive an award letter first. Plus I just checked the social security website a few days ago, crickets… I called the bank ready for disappointment, instead I was shocked and thrilled to find actual funds in my bank account. So we ate, and then ate some more. It’s a beautiful thing. I don’t want pity, I just wanted to be recognized as disabled. Finally I have that. So to any of you out there struggling with social security, DO NOT GIVE UP. I started this whole adventure in 2013! It took 6 years. Ridiculous, yes, but finally my hard work and patience paid off. Keep at it. It gets better.

Published by Sarah Jones
My name is Sarah Jones and I am a writer, storyteller, and advocate for mental health, addiction, and social justice. I began this website at the urging of my boyfriend Jason Campbell, in January 2019. I was having a tough time processing my grief after my husband, Keith Jones, died by suicide October 23, 2017. Jason thought I should share my life experiences to help other sufferers but mostly, to help myself. He was on to something... Sadly, tragedy struck again and Jason died by suicide January 22, 2020. Not a day goes by that I don't think about the two loves of my life that I was so fortunate to have. I hope that by fighting the stigma of mental illness and addiction, I can honor their memory and make them proud, wherever they are, out there among the stars... View all posts by Sarah Jones