I have not been able to find a lawyer that will take my case against the Navy. Last June I experienced non-congestive heart failure caused by years of reduced oxygen saturation in my blood from damage to my lungs caused by asbestosis. I was exposed to asbestos in 1971 when I was assigned to paint interior passages while my ship was in dry dock. Two years later the Navy removed asbestos from all their paint. The VA has been excellent treating my COPD and asbestosis but I have been completely disabled for the last six months. Taking a shower has become a major chore for me now.
Does anyone know a law firm that would take my case against the Navy and help expedite my compensation claim from the VA? I live in El Cajon, California just a few minutes east of San Diego.
I filed my VA compensation claim last November just as a large number of veterans entered the system after the end of the Iraq war and waiting periods have exploded. When I first applied I was told the process would take up to six months to receive benefit payments but now I'm being told that the process will most likely take a year or more. I'm not going to make it. I am completely out of my savings now since I have been unable to work for the last six months. I will be on the streets by then if alive at all. I need help.