Multiple sclerosis decisions — 2003

The Board denied the claim for benefits pursuant to 38 U.S.C.A. § 1151 for a cerebrovascular accident as a result of left lower extremity fracture surgery performed at a VA medical facility in November 1994, and also denied the other two issues.

The veteran's service-connected disabilities have rendered her unable to walk without the aid of braces, crutches, canes or a wheelchair. She is granted certificates of eligibility for specially adapted housing and financial assistance in purchasing an automobile and necessary adaptive equipment.

The Board denied the veteran's claim for service connection for Multiple Sclerosis, finding no competent medical evidence to show that MS had its onset in service or within seven years following separation from service.

The veteran's symptoms have remained relatively stable, with clinical findings demonstrating the presence of ascertainable residuals but no more. The criteria for a rating in excess of 30 percent for multiple sclerosis have not been met.

The veteran's appeal for service connection for multiple sclerosis has been dismissed due to the death of the veteran during the pendency of the appeal.

The Board denied service connection for multiple sclerosis and migraines, as well as an increased rating for the right arm burns. The decision also noted that appellant's symptoms were related to her service-connected disabilities.

The Board found that the veteran's multiple sclerosis was not incurred in or aggravated by service and denied his claim for service connection.

The Board found that the veteran's multiple sclerosis may be presumed to have been incurred in service, given his symptoms dating back to 1982 and current diagnosis.

The Board has granted an effective date of December 1, 1994 for dependency and indemnity compensation due to the veteran's death from a service-connected disability.

The Board denied the appellant's request to reopen his claim of service connection for multiple sclerosis, finding that no new and material evidence had been submitted.

The Board found that the veteran is incompetent for purposes of VA benefits due to his cognitive impairment and inability to manage his financial affairs.

The veteran is eligible for VA beneficiary travel benefits during the 2002 and 2003 calendar years due to his significant disability as a bedridden quadriplegic with multiple sclerosis.

The appeal has been dismissed due to the appellant's request for withdrawal of the appeal.

The veteran's multiple sclerosis is found to have originated in service and the claim for service connection is granted.