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| Written by Cathy Sherman |
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Rick Patchen knows how to solve problems.
At Hewlett-Packard, an international
computer company, Patchen’s job title
was Solutions Architect. As a technical
consultant and contract writer, he worked
with companies worldwide to meet their
computer needs.
Now, Patchen uses his problem-solving skills and documents expertise to help
U.S. military veterans navigate the process of applying for veterans’ benefits. In
fall 2008, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced that ALS would
be a presumptively compensable illness for all veterans with 90 days or more of
continuously active service in the military. Patchen, who was diagnosed with ALS
in 2007, was in the U.S. Air Force for six years.
Patchen has prepared instruction sheets – How to Submit a Claim for VA Compensation
for ALS and another for Special Monthly Compensation for the loss, or
loss of use, of specific organs or extremities. These information sheets are available
from David Burkett at The ALS Association clinic at the KU Medical Center
and through The ALS Association Keith Worthingon Chapter office. Patchen
invites veterans with ALS to come his home to work on the application process.
Patchen applied for his benefits in early November 2008 and received his first
check in less than two months. “We got the check before he got the approval letter,”
said Jean Patchen, Rick’s wife.
Patchen can also demonstrate his Hewlett-Packard iPAQ, which has a Gus communication
device. Patchen types what he wants to say on the iPAQ keyboard,
and Gus (www.gusinc.com) translates it into speech. He has given a demonstration
at an ALS support group.
“It’s the most natural speaking device there is,” said Jean. The Gus communication
device is designed for speech output and computer access specifically for
people with ALS and others with conditions affecting speech.
Patchen’s ALS symptoms began with a severe sore throat in May 2007, and he
gradually lost his ability to speak. He was diagnosed with ALS in May 2008 after
going to a variety of physicians for testing.
“We were surprised there was no test for ALS,” Jean said. “You rule out everything
else.”
Patchen walks with only a little foot drop and can type on
the computer. He only recently gave up driving, but still
mows the grass on his riding lawn mower. He uses his iPAQ
with the Gus device when he goes to church, shopping and
at the ALS support group.
“My attitude is to stay strong and happy,” he says through
Gus.
Rick loved his job, and although he has been impaired
since 2007, he was able to stay on at HP until March 23 of
this year because he was a subject matter expert and had
many contacts. “It was as fun as a hobby,” he said.
When he was working he loved to get up and live life to the
fullest every day, and that’s what he’s doing now.
“And why not?” says Jean. “We don’t always like the new
normal. But we try to live life as normally as we can.”
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