We recently assisted a federal
social worker
with his FERS disability claim. He suffers from severe
sensorineuralhearing loss
– a condition that began in early childhood. Although he was able
to perform all of the essential functions of his position when he was
originally hired in 2010, his hearing impairment steadily worsened over
time such that by late 2013, he was experiencing great difficulty comprehending
verbal conversations (even with reasonable accommodation). Since his primary
role is to counsel those in crisis and need, it is paramount that he be
able to comprehend verbal conversations in a variety of emotional contexts.
We worked closely with the employee and his physician to draft a letter,
which showed a clear nexus between his disabling medical condition and
his inability to perform the functions of his position – and we
are excited to report that his disability claim has been approved. Congratulations!