The backlog of American’s waiting for disability benefits is bigger now than it has ever been before. Increasing application numbers, a staff shortage at the Social Security Administration, and stricter regulations are all contributing to this backlog. The disability application process can take years — and working during this time disqualifies applicants from being approved for benefits. The repercussions of waiting for a disability hearing without an income or any health benefits often leads to terrible loss and sometimes death.

This heartbreaking piece by The Washington Post tells the story of one man’s experience with the disability application process and gives the reader a glimpse into just how challenging life can be for someone in the midst of a very long wait for government assistance.