Just some truth about SSDI -- it doesn’t matter so much what the disability is, whether its CAH or not.  Six years ago I had a head-on accident with a drunk driver and required multiple surgeries to save my leg.  While the doctors did save it, it took me two years to learn to walk again.  I was left with nerve damage which limits my ability to stand, walk, or even sit for more than twenty minutes or so at a time.  While I was still undergoing surgeries SSDI rejected me twice -- I hired a lawyer and appealed until I got it.  It really was a no-brainer case, but until a judge had it in front of him, I didn’t get anywhere.  (And when the judge read my case file I didn’t even have to appear -- he rendered judgment with no hearing). 

Some people think that because their disability isn’t overtly apparent, Social Security is giving them the run around.  I just try to remember that it’s hard to get it because there’s too many people out there that have lied to get it.  They’re the real people to be upset with.

If you feel you or your child qualify for it, just be ready to follow through on the appeals, that’s all.  It may take awhile, but it can happen.

(Oh, as far as drug addicts and alcoholics getting it easily -- more than a decade ago they took addiction and alcoholism off the list of qualifying disabilities.  It may seem like they get it with no problems, but it’s usually because there’s another severe underlying medical issue (sometimes completely separate from their addiction), such as liver failure, AIDS, schizophrenia or the like.  Their disability claim is NOT based on alcoholism or addiction.  I remember when the laws changed -- I’m a recovering alcoholic, sober over 15 years.  I never applied for SSDI based on my alcoholism, but I’ve known people who lost their benefits.  Lots of times losing their benefits proved a catalyst to getting sober.)