Paul,

I got the call today at 1602, and Paul and I discussed the general requirements for filling out the papers that he had. I recommended that he not use a service organization because they only add additional time to every request. He should deal directly with a single representative from the VA. He should call and make appointments with that representative so that only one story is presented to the board. I don't like the game of gosip that is played when more than one representative gets involved, it becomes confusing. I recommended that he deal with a single person in order to limit confusion. I discussed filling out the form, it is basically an appeal of the current rating, he has 50% now, I recommended that he get the letter from the doctor that he spoke with yesterday and forward that with his request for appeal of the initial decision. The Doctor's letter should explain the conditions needed for the evaluation, especially since he stated that Paul met the requirements for 100%.

Paul is doing well, and it was good talking with him. I feel that he was comfortable with the directions given.

Dave

P.S. I will be in your area for the Lake of the Ozarks Bikefest on 13 through 17 September, and then again I will try to visit you after the 24th of September.