November Case Spotlight

Case Spotlight – March 2023

Partner Mandy Kelly wins service-connected disability claim for veteran suffering from Parkinson’s disease due to exposure at Fort Eustis

Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. While the exact cause of Parkinson’s disease is still unknown, research has shown that exposure to certain chemicals, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), can increase the risk of developing the disease.

Recently, Partner Mandy Kelly won a service-connected disability claim for a veteran suffering from Parkinson’s disease due to his exposure to PCBs at Fort Eustis. The veteran, who was stationed at the base in 1973 and 1977, was exposed to PCBs during active duty.

PCBs were commonly used in electrical equipment and insulation until their production was banned in the late 1970s. However, they remain in the environment and can persist for decades. PCBs are known to be toxic to the nervous system and have been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, developmental problems, and neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.

The veteran in this case worked in close proximity to PCBs, which were used as coolants in the engines of vehicles he repaired. Over time, he began experiencing symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, including tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement. He filed a service-connected disability claim with the help of Partner Mandy Kelly, arguing that his Parkinson’s disease was caused by his exposure to PCBs at Fort Eustis.

After a lengthy legal battle, Partner Mandy Kelly was able to successfully prove that the veteran’s Parkinson’s disease was caused by his exposure to PCBs at Fort Eustis. As a result, the veteran was awarded 100% service-connected disability benefits for him and his family.

This case highlights the dangers of exposure to toxic chemicals such as PCBs, and the importance of holding responsible parties accountable for the harm they cause. It also demonstrates the critical role that attorneys like Partner Mandy Kelly play in helping veterans and others who have been harmed by exposure to harmful chemicals.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease or another neurodegenerative disorder that may be linked to exposure to toxic chemicals, it’s important to speak with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Contact Disability Law Group today to learn more about how we can help.

Author: Mandy L. Kelly

Attorney Mandy L. Kelly received her law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. Prior to law school, Mrs. Kelly received her Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration-Pre Law from Michigan State University. Mandy previously worked for the University of Detroit Mercy’s non-profit organization, Project SALUTE, helping low-income veterans obtain military compensation and pension benefits. She has traveled the country assisting veterans in obtaining VA disability benefits and has trained new attorneys in the area of veterans law.