EWING SARCOMA & SSI BENEFITS

EWING SARCOMA IS A RARE CHILDHOOD CANCER

Ewing sarcoma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer that primarily affects the bones and soft tissues. Named after Dr. James Ewing, who first described it in the early 20th century, this condition commonly affects children and young adults.

One of the most important features of Ewing sarcoma is its genetic underpinnings. Unlike many other cancers, which are driven by mutations in specific genes, Ewing sarcoma involves chromosomal translocation.  This fusion event results in the production of an abnormal proteins that fuel the rapid growth of cancer cells.

According to the American Cancer Society, Ewing sarcoma accounts for about 1% of all childhood cancers. Almost 15,000 children are diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States. Therefore, this suggests that around 150 children are found to have Ewing sarcoma annually. However, these numbers can change due to various factors such as progress in diagnosis and reporting methods.

If you or your child have Ewing sarcoma, then you should file an application for SSI benefits. In addition to meeting SSA’s medical rules, you will also need to meet the SSI income and asset requirements. Learn what you need to know to comply with the SSI rules.

SYMPTOMS & SIGNS OF EWING SARCOMA

Ewing sarcoma can appear in subtle yet significant ways, especially in children and young adults. Recognizing the signs and symptoms early on is essential for  diagnosis and proper treatment.

• Pain and Swelling: One of the main symptoms of Ewing sarcoma is pain, which occurs in the affected bone or soft tissue. This pain can get worse over time. Swelling around the site of the tumor may also accompany the pain, which proves the presence of abnormal growth.
• Lumps or Masses: In some cases, Ewing sarcoma may present as lumps or masses when the tumor develops in soft tissues. These lumps may be firm to the touch and may increase in size over time. While not all lumps are cancer, any new or unusual growth warrants medical evaluation.
• Limited Range of Motion: As the tumor grows, it can impede normal movement and range of motion in the affected area. Patients may experience weakness or difficulty performing certain movements, depending on the tumor’s location and size. This limitation in mobility may become worse as the tumor progresses.
• Fractures or Bone Weakness: Ewing sarcoma primarily affects the bones, particularly long bones such as the femur, tibia, or pelvis. As the tumor weakens the bone structure, individuals may be more prone to fractures or breaks, even with minimal trauma. Unexplained fractures or chronic bone pain should prompt further investigation.
• Generalized Symptoms: In some cases, Ewing sarcoma may present with symptoms such as fatigue, fever, or weight loss. These symptoms are not specific and may overlap with other conditions, making the diagnosis of the disease more challenging. However, when these symptoms occur along with bone pain, they may serve as additional red flags.

UNDERSTANDING THE STAGES OF EWING SARCOMA

Ewing sarcoma, like many cancers, can present in different stages. Each stage has its own implications for treatment and outcome. There are the three main stages of the disease: localized, metastatic, and recurrent.

1. Localized Ewing Sarcoma:

In this stage, the cancer is confined to the bone or soft tissue where it began. While it may have spread to nearby tissues, including lymph nodes, it has not yet spread to distant parts of the body. Early treatment is critical at this stage. Because it offers the best chance for a successful outcome.

2. Metastatic Ewing Sarcoma:

Metastatic Ewing sarcoma marks a more advanced stage, where the cancer has spread beyond its original site to other parts of the body. In Ewing sarcoma of the bone, common sites of metastasis include the lungs, other bones, and bone marrow. The spread of the cancer may mean you need a more aggressive approach to managing the disease.

3. Recurrent Ewing Sarcoma:

Recurrent Ewing sarcoma occurs when the cancer returns after a period of remission following treatment. It can recur in the same location as the original tumor or occur in other areas of the body. Dealing with recurrent Ewing sarcoma poses challenges, as the cancer may have developed resistance to previous treatments. This requires looking again at treatment options and potentially more aggressive therapy.

Understanding the stages of Ewing sarcoma is important for forming an appropriate treatment plan for your specific circumstances. By recognizing each stage of the disease, your doctor can provide care aimed at a positive outcome.

TREATMENTS FOR EWING SARCOMA:  NAVIGATING YOUR OPTIONS

Ewing sarcoma presents unique challenges in treatment, particularly when it comes to children and teenagers. There are a number of treatment options for fighting this rare cancer. Some are standard approaches to treatment for all cancers. Other treatment options, however, are new clinical trials. You should discuss treatment options with your doctor to find the best choices for your child.

CHEMOTHERAPY:

Chemotherapy employs drugs to halt cancer cell growth. This occurs by killing the cells or stopping their division. Whether given orally or through injection, chemotherapy infiltrates the bloodstream, targeting cancer cells throughout the body. Chemotherapy and multiple anticancer drugs are often done at the same time.

RADIATION THERAPY:

Harnessing high energy x-rays or other radiation forms, radiation therapy aims to eliminate cancer cells’ growth. External radiation therapy directs radiation from a machine outside the body towards the cancer. It proves beneficial when tumors are inoperable or removal causes too much risk. Additionally, it can shrink tumors before surgery or address tumors after surgery.

SURGERY:

Surgery plays a crucial role in removing residual cancer after chemotherapy or radiation. Complete tumor removal is the goal. In cases where tissue and bone need replacement, grafts sourced from the patient’s body, donors, or implants such as artificial bones, may be used. Following surgery, chemo or radiation, may be done to stop the cancer from coming back.

STEM CELL RESCUE:

Some cases demand aggressive treatment. Therefore, high doses of chemotherapy are given to kill cancer cells. However, this approach also targets healthy cells. A stem cell transplant replenishes blood forming cells. Stem cells are harvested from the blood or bone marrow and reintroduced via infusion after chemotherapy. This method treats local or recurrent Ewing sarcoma.

IMMUNOTHERAPY:

Immunotherapy uses the body’s immune system to combat cancer. One promising treatment is CAR T-cell therapy, where T cells are modified in the laboratory to target specific cancer cell surface proteins. These cells are then infused back into the patient, where they attack cancer cells. CAR T-cell therapy holds potential as a treatment that help you survive recurrent Ewing sarcoma.

WHAT ARE THE SURVIVAL RATES FOR EWING SARCOMA?

Survival rates depend on several factors including age at diagnosis, stage of the disease, and location of the tumor. Here is more information on survival rates for Ewing sarcoma:

• About 70 percent of children with Ewing sarcoma are cured. This means that seven out of ten children diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma will survive the disease.
• Teens aged 15 to 19 have a lower survival rate of about 56 percent. This is a lower survival rate compared to younger children.
• For children whose disease has spread to other parts of the body, the survival rate is less than 30 percent. The disease is more difficult to control because the cancer has spread beyond its original location.
• Children whose tumors are larger or located in the pelvis, ribs or spine are less likely to be cured. Tumors in these areas are more difficult to completely remove through surgery. They may also be associated with a higher risk of further problems.

It is important to note that survival rates are estimates based on large groups of patients and may not accurately predict individual outcomes. Additionally, new treatment options continue to improve outcomes for those with Ewing sarcoma.

UNDERSTANDING SSA’S COMPASSIONATE ALLOWANCE FOR EWING SARCOMA

COMPASSIONATE ALLOWANCES (CAL):

The Social Security Administration (SSA) operates a special program designed to make the SSI claims process faster for those with severe medical conditions, including  cancers like Ewing sarcoma. Under CAL, those with a condition that qualifies can receive faster approval for SSI benefits.

QUALIFYING FOR CAL FOR EWING SARCOMA:

Ewing sarcoma is on the SSA’s list of compassionate allowances due to the significant impact it has on the child’s ability to perform daily activities. Meeting the medical criteria for the disease involves providing medical records and evidence of the diagnosis. You will also need to provide treatment history to the SSA. Finally, your doctor can write about the functional limitations caused by your condition.

GUIDANCE THROUGH THE SSI CLAIMS PROCESS:

Applying for SSI benefits can be a frustrating process, especially when you are dealing with a serious illness like Ewing sarcoma. Seeking guidance from a Social Security attorney can make the process easier for you. Studies show that hiring an attorney triples your chances of a winning your SSI claim. Your attorney can help you gather the necessary medical evidence. They can also help you complete SSA’s forms and help you during the appeals process.

Expediting the SSI claims process ensures that families can access vital financial support when they need it most. By using SSA’s special rules, those with this cancer can receive quicker access to SSI benefits. Your attorney should know how to use the special allowance process to win your SSI benefits.

FILE FOR SSI BENEFITS IF YOU HAVE EWING SARCOMA

Qualifying for childhood SSI benefits means you have a severe medical condition. The symptoms of Ewing sarcoma can be so severe that they prevent you from normal activities and or going to school. The SSA uses a five step review process to determine if they can pay you benefits.

There are two types of Social Security benefits: Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. You can file an application online at the Social Security’s website for either one or both. Below, you can find an explanation as to each type of benefit you can file for:

Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI):  

SSDI benefits are for those who can no longer work due to a severe medical condition like Ewing sarcoma. The amount of money you receive from SSDI benefits is based on the taxes you paid during your working years. To qualify for SSDI, you must have earned enough “work credits” to qualify.

A work credit is an amount of taxable income. You can earn up to 4 work credits per year. The amount of work credits you will need depends on how old you are when you apply. If you haven’t earned enough work credits at the time you apply, then you will only be able to file for SSI benefits.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI):  

SSI is a needs based benefit. It is for only those people with little to no income, such as children and the elderly. Ewing sarcoma is a disease that affects children. Therefore, it is likely that if you are reading this you are a parent who is seeking benefits for your child. Even if your child has cancer, if you make more than a certain amount of money per month you cannot receive SSI benefits. The SSA counts the income of everyone who is living in your home. The SSA also counts your income and assets.

If you have a spouse who earns more than $4000 a month, then that income will prevent your child from getting SSI benefits. The same rule applies if you are living with your mother and she is paying your bills. You cannot get SSI benefits, no matter how severe the medical condition, if you do not meet the income and asset rules for SSI.

WHAT ARE THE SIX CHILDHOOD DOMAINS ?

If you child has Ewing sarcoma, they should meet an SSA listing. However, if for some reason they do not meet a listing, then they can still qualify for SSI benefits. To win SSI benefits, you must be familiar with the six domains the SSA uses to describe childhood medical conditions. The six domains are listed below. If your child’s physical condition does not meet a listing, then you can turn to the domains to show your child has a medical condition that deserves payment of SSI benefits.

In order for the SSA to pay SSI benefits, your child must have two “marked” impairments or one “extreme” impairment in a domain area. For example, if you look at the domain “Acquiring and Using Information,” then you will see that a child might have an “extreme” impairment if they cannot use speech to explain their thoughts or form sentences. Learn how the SSA’s six domains for children’s benefits.

The domain limitation depends upon the child’s age and whether or not they have age appropriate behavior.  Often, in court, a parent can testify as to domain limitations. Additionally, good evidence about the domains is easy to secure from doctors, teachers, tutors, counselors, or even other family members. You should hire a lawyer to prepare your case and obtain evidence from medical and other sources.

WE HELP YOU WIN SSI BENEFITS FOR EWING SARCOMA

You do not need to try to win SSD and SSI benefits by yourself. We can help file your SSD application. Also, we can help you appeal every SSA denial. For example, our attorneys and staff can:

• Send you the paperwork and forms you need to become our client
• Help you file your application for SSD and SSI benefits
• Inform the SSA they should pay your benefits under the Compassionate Allowance Rules
• Request an appeal if you receive a denial from DDS
• Help you confirm your SSA doctor exam
• Request a Hearing with an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ)
• Prepare you to testify at your ALJ hearing
• Represent you at your SSD hearing and question the expert witnesses
• Read about job expert testimony
• Learn about medical expert testimony
• Request review of an SSA decision with the Appeals Council
• Request review of an Appeals Council denial in Federal Court

If you file your application for benefits online at Social Security’s website, then you have 6 months to complete the application. Try not to take that long to finish it. Once you submit your application online, the SSA sends you an application summary in the mail. You must sign the summary and mail it back. If you need help to file your application, then we will help you.

HIRE THE BEST SSD ATTORNEY TO HELP YOU WIN BENEFITS

Throughout your SSD benefits case, our attorneys and staff help you collect your medical records. Medical records are crucial to winning your case. Learn about the importance of medical records in your disability case. Once the evidence is complete, your case will be ready for a hearing. Your day in court is before a judge from the SSA.

Prior to your court hearing, we will meet with you to talk about the questions the judge will ask. We will try to explain what kinds of questions you will have to answer. Also, we will also try to prepare you to answer those questions. Obviously, you will be answering questions about your cancer symptoms and any symptoms you have from your treatment.

Additionally, you will need to be able to talk about your ability to lift, sit, stand, and walk, throughout an eight hour day. This is known as your residual functional capacity. You will also need to discuss whether your cancer impacts your ability to concentrate and focus on tasks. Likewise, it is important for the judge to know if you are having fatigue or mental issues that make it difficult for you to get along with friends, family, or teachers.

If you case goes to hearing, you will also need an attorney to question the medical expert and the vocational expert. Unfortunately, if you do not hire an attorney to help you, then you will probably lose your case. Because you need a lawyer with experience to represent you in court.

WE ARE LEGAL EXPERTS AT WINNING SSI BENEFITS

In the last 30 years, we have won over 20,000 SSDI and SSI hearings for our clients. Additionally, we have won over $100 million in ongoing and past due SSD and SSI  benefits. During the time we have been in business, we have seen the SSA rules become more difficult.

In our opinion, it is harder than ever to win Social Security cases. Also, the medical evidence requirements and listing rules are more difficult to meet. Those who go to the SSA hearing without a lawyer are not usually successful in winning benefits.

If you have Ewing sarcoma or any type of cancer and you know that you are not going to be able to work for more than 12 months, then you need to apply for benefits. Also, you need to do it right away. Don’t wait, thinking you might get better quickly. If you do, then you can withdraw the application.

Meanwhile, if treatment doesn’t work, then you have at least started the process. SSI benefits are available to you if you start an application on the Social Security website.

Remember, to win SSI benefits, you must first file an application. Many people believe that once they file an application, the SSA will pay them back in time to when their cancer began. That is not true. Benefits are tied to the date that you actually apply. SSI benefits begin on the date that file an application for benefits. So, there is no time to wait.

LEARN ABOUT YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY LEGAL TEAM 

At our SSD law firm, we can help you apply for benefits. Also, we can help you appeal a denial from the SSA. Likewise, we can represent you in court when the time comes.  If necessary, we can also appeal your case to the Appeals Council. Additionally, we can file an appeal in Federal Court. We can represent you not matter where you live, whether it be Utah, Nevada, Colorado, Idaho, or California.

If you have Ewing sarcoma, then you need legal help to get your SSI benefits. You need to focus on your health. Advances in medical research and treatments are ongoing and are offering more options for people with this form of cancer. Additionally, medical trials can provide access to new treatments. Do what you can to take advantage of any treatment your doctor offers.

Also, we bring over 60 years of legal experience to your case. For instance, Dianna Cannon has been helping her clients win benefits for over thirty years. Brett Bunkall and Andria Summers also have many years of legal experience. You can learn more on our About Us page. Together, we have won over 20,000 Social Security cases. You can trust that we will do everything we can to win SSI benefits for Ewing sarcoma.