Blog | Cameron Firm, PC

29 Nov 2023

VA Disability Rating for Prostate Cancer: What You Need to Know

Cancer

A cancer diagnosis is overwhelming on its own, even without the added stress of navigating health complications. There are many treatment options for prostate cancer, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Though treatment is customized for each patient, they all have one thing in common: all prostate cancer treatments have side effects. Some common side effects include nausea, fatigue, incontinence, and erectile dysfunction, which significantly hinders daily activities. These side effects can be temporary and only last during convalescence or last a lifetime. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among veterans and affects twice as many veterans…

22 Nov 2023

Navy and Justice Department Offer Faster Camp Lejeune Payouts

Camp Lejeune, Uncategorized

In 1982, the Marine Corps discovered toxic chemicals in the water at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. Individuals who had served at the camp were experiencing adverse health effects after drinking water at the camp. In the past few weeks, a new player has emerged in the ongoing battles regarding Camp Lejeune's toxic water exposure: the United States Department of the Navy. Together with the Department of Justice, the Department of the Navy has finalized an “Elective Option” for Veterans exposed to the toxic water at Camp Lejeune, as well as their eligible survivors, to receive a payout from the…

13 Nov 2023

Ask An Expert: How Medical Experts Look at Toxic Exposure Diagnoses

Toxic Exposure

We've partnered with experts in VA disability to answer your most pertinent questions. This month, we spoke with Dr. Danielle Kelvas about Toxic Exposures. It's important to note that we sometimes enlist the expertise of professionals like Dr. Kelvas to rectify issues arising from VA examiners, including for conditions related to toxic exposures. If the expert supports our stance, they will directly address any adverse VA decisions and medical opinions present in your VA file. About Our Expert Dr. Danielle Kelvas, MD, earned her medical degree from East Tennessee State University Quillen College of Medicine and initially specialized in Emergency…

10 Nov 2023

Veterna’s Day Discounts 2023

Veteran's Day

Veterans Day is a time to honor the brave men and women who have served our country in the military. If you’re looking for a thoughtful way to show appreciation, take your friend or loved one out to eat. Hundreds of restaurants offer special deals and discounts to veterans and active-duty military personnel on this special day. Here are a few of the best Veterans Day restaurant discounts available in 2023: 110 Grill Veterans and active-duty military get a complimentary lunch from a select menu at 110 Grill from 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on November 10, 2023. Another Broken…

05 Oct 2023

VA COLA Increase 2024: How Much Will Benefits Increase in 2024?

COLA

The cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, is a periodic change in Social Security benefits. The COLA rate is determined by the Consumer Price Index (CPI). This rate is used to determine the amount of change in benefits needed to keep up with rising costs. In layman's terms, the COLA rate is designed to ensure that the purchasing power of Social Security income doesn't erode due to inflation or the increased cost of goods and services. The history of COLA dates back to the Social Security Amendments of 1972, which were signed into law by President Richard Nixon. This legislation provided automatic…

14 Sep 2023

Understanding PFAS Exposure and Its Impact on Health

Toxic Exposure

Americans are exposed to toxic chemicals at low levels for most of our lives. Research bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency set limits for what levels of toxic exposure are acceptable to the human body. However, some chemicals, like PFAS, are not fully understood by our governing bodies. Veterans in particular are still exposed to these chemicals at dangerous levels. The VA is making compensation available to veterans dealing with health effects from PFAS exposure. What is PFAS? PFAS stands for both perfluoroalkyl substances and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These are groups of chemicals used in fire suppression agents and other substances.…

29 Aug 2023

VA Benefits for Exposure to Jet Fuel

Toxic Exposure

Military service can have a lasting impact on a person's health. In addition to the physical and psychological stresses of war, many veterans are exposed to toxic chemicals and other hazardous materials. One such exposure is jet fuel, a common fuel used in aircraft and other military vehicles. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has recognized the dangers of jet fuel exposure and offers a number of benefits to veterans who have been affected. These benefits can include compensation for medical expenses, disability payments, and vocational rehabilitation. In this article, we will discuss the dangers of jet fuel exposure and…

10 Aug 2023

Applying for Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E)

VA Disability Attorney

Veterans face unique challenges transitioning to civilian life, especially those with service-related disabilities. The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) offers the Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) program to assist veterans in overcoming employment barriers and achieving meaningful employment. This program provides vital support and services to disabled veterans. This article explores the intricacies of the VR&E program, trying to understand its purpose and the services offered. Understanding Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E): Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E) is a crucial program. Its purpose is to help disabled veterans gain or maintain suitable employment. VR&E gives veterans the tools and resources…

03 Aug 2023

Military Service-Related Cancers

Cancer, Uncategorized

For those who have served in the military, the risk of certain health conditions, including specific cancers, can be significantly higher. The increased risk is mainly due to exposure to various environmental hazards during service. Understanding these risks, knowing the symptoms, and being aware of available support options is crucial for all veterans. This article aims to shed light on common military-related cancers, potential risk factors, and available resources for affected veterans. Common Military-Related Cancers Several types of cancer have been linked to military service. This is primarily due to the unique exposure risks servicemen and women face. If you…

27 Jul 2023

Ask An Expert: Preparing For Your C&P Exam

PTSD

About Our Expert Jeffrey Garbelman is a licensed psychologist and co-operator of Watertown Psychological Assessment, LLC, which assists veterans in all matters of mental health and veteran benefits. As a former VA C&P Psychologist and consultant for the Milwaukee Regional Center, he has offered medical opinions on over 250 veteran mental health Disability Indemnity Compensation claims and over 1,500 mental health Compensation and Pension claims. He has also published two articles on mental health and veteran compensation examinations in the Journal of Psychological Injury and the Law. We asked him: "How should a Veteran prepare for their C&P Exam and…