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In an incredible show of community support, the MAYDAY Appeal has successfully raised over $50,000 for the RSLWA Claims Advocacy Service.
"This crucial funding enables RSLWA to continue providing free Advocacy support to veterans lodging compensation claims with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), helping them access the medical treatment, financial support and rehabilitation they need," said Gabby, Veteran Services Manager at RSLWA.
In 2023 RSLWA Advocates submitted 2,811 compensation claims on behalf of veterans in need. This year, RSLWA will be able to assist even more veterans lodge a claim.
The struggles some veterans face can be immense. From chronic pain to mental health challenges, navigating the complex claim lodgement process can be overwhelming. Our advocacy work aims to lift that burden, providing hope and can be life changing.
Real Stories, Real Impact
Take Ben*, a 43-year-old Army veteran who served from 2003 to 2012. Ben struggled with PTSD, memory issues, panic attacks and joint pain. Initially, he found the DVA claims process confusing and unmanageable. With the support of the RSLWA Advocacy Team, Ben received the benefits he deserved, significantly improving quality of life for both him and his family.
Understanding the Advocacy Process
The advocacy process begins with an initial onboarding form and follow up consultation to understand the veteran’s needs and gather necessary documentation. The team then reviews these documents, prepares the claim with supporting evidence, and finally secures the veteran’s approval before lodging the claim with DVA. Ensuring every step is handled with care and precision means that veterans receive the best possible support to manage their condition.
Common Health Conditions Addressed
RSLWA sees a wide range of health conditions in the claims they process. Mental health issues such as PTSD, depression and anxiety are prevalent, profoundly impacting veterans’ daily lives and overall well-being. On the physical health front, conditions like lumbar and thoracic spondylosis (a type of arthritis affecting the spine) and chondromalacia patellae (a knee condition) are common, along with osteoarthritis, hearing loss, and tinnitus.
Your Impact
Every generous donation to the MAYDAY Appeal is vital in helping veterans approach their health challenges with dignity and support. This provides veterans with a lifeline, ensuring they are not left "standing in the dark" and can access the benefits they need to lead better and fulfilling lives.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Gabby expresses sincere gratitude for the invaluable support: "Thank you once again for your generosity. Together, we are making a profound difference in the lives of WA veterans and their families."
For more information on the RSLWA Claims Advocacy Service, please visit RSLWA's Advocacy Page.
*RSLWA's case studies are based on real RSLWA advocacy cases, some details have been altered to protect the privacy of WA veterans accessing support.
