My husband is disabled due to a head injury from a MVA. He worked for many years before filing. He was approved on the first try and recently underwent an 18 month review and was approved again. My husband has an awesome doctor who has documented his condition in DETAIL. It's a long story, but my lawyer recommended getting a "narrative" from the doctor, which is literally my husband's life story on paper. It cost $500, but it was the best money we ever spent.

Social Security will make you jump through hoops, you will get your benefits if you are eligible. Yes, it's a pain in the butt, but you can win if you try. If you hire a disabilty lawyer, I believe they take 30% of your back benefits, you can fill the paperwork out on your own.