From Day One I first filed (on VA website) for compensation late 2003. I was immediately granted type II diabetes, after I provided PROOF of being in Vietnam. My biggest mistake was NOT using a VSO as I cheated myself of the big picture. I followed up with the American Legion and Georgia State VSO filing additional claims on my behalf. It took 4 more years, however, I am currently rated 100% disabled. I wasn't aware of how screwed up emotionally I really was due to PTSD. It's frightening to look back and recount my alcohol abuse and what I was trying to hide. What ever it takes, don't give up with your claim. It's worth the BS that VA puts all of us through. [ Back ] [ Tell Your Compensation Story ]