This topic is about someone who has been living with a colostomy for about a year and is facing challenges due to frequent colostomy bag failures and the high costs of supplies. The person is considering applying for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) because the situation is causing significant disruptions and financial strain. They are seeking advice on the application process and what to expect if their initial claim is denied. Here are some helpful insights and advice shared by others:

1. Approval odds and process:
- It's common for ostomates to be denied SSDI on the first and sometimes second application, but many are approved on the third attempt.
- The process can take about a year before you start receiving payments, so it's important to plan financially for this gap.
- Once approved for SSDI, you automatically qualify for Medicare two years later, regardless of your age.

2. Documentation and professional help:
- Gather detailed letters from all your treating physicians, not just your gastroenterologist, explaining why you cannot continue working.
- A long work history (around 20 years) and being older (like turning 55) can strengthen your claim, as the Social Security Administration assumes retraining is harder.
- Consider consulting an attorney who specializes in disability cases; many offer free evaluations.
- If legal fees are a concern, some firms work on a contingency basis, meaning they only get paid if you win.

3. Appeal and hearing tips:
- Stay persistent and regularly follow up with your local SSA office; being proactive can make a difference.
- At the hearing stage, having well-organized medical records and a prepared lawyer can lead to quick, favorable decisions. Some hearings have been resolved in as little as 15 minutes.

4. Eligibility cautions:
- To qualify for SSDI, you generally need to have worked and paid Social Security taxes within the past five years. If not, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) might be your only option.

5. Interim coping strategies:
- Consider colostomy irrigation to reduce the number of daily pouch changes while you work through the disability application process.

6. Political advocacy:
- Engage with elected officials, especially during an election year, to help expedite your SSDI review and advocate for better oversight of ostomy supply pricing.