NEW EVIDENCE SECURES LUMP-SUM SETTLEMENT When James (not his real name) was diagnosed with a severe seizure disorder, his life changed overnight. As a control panel operator for Valero, his job required working from heights and with hazardous equipment — tasks his doctors deemed too dangerous given his condition. Despite clear medical opinions, UNUM Insurance denied his long-term disability claim, stating that the evidence provided was insufficient. The denial was devastating for James, who had been earning $114,000 annually. He feared losing everything he’d worked so hard for, all while managing a debilitating condition. Building a Stronger Case When James turned to us for help, we got to work gathering additional evidence to strengthen his appeal. We collaborated with his doctors to craft detailed, signed statements highlighting his condition’s severity. We also helped James create a vivid sworn statement describing his unpredictable seizures, the dangers of his job, and the physical toll of his condition. To further support his case, James’ wife, father, and mother provided affidavits detailing the impact of seizures on his daily life. These combined accounts painted a compelling picture of how James’ condition made it impossible for him to perform his job safely — or any job requiring sustained focus and physical effort. A Just Outcome Faced with overwhelming new evidence, UNUM reversed its decision. They paid James all the past-due benefits and awarded him a lump-sum settlement for future payouts under the policy. James’s persistence paid Fighting an Unfair Disability Denial
Iowa Rabbit Festival When: March 20–22 Where: Iowa, Louisiana Admission: $12–$20, kids 12 & under free Website: IowaRabbitFestival.com
Hop into spring at the Iowa Rabbit Festival. Featuring a rabbit cook-off, live zydeco music, and a vibrant atmosphere, this quirky and entertaining event is a true Cajun celebration. Since it started in 1986, the family-friendly festival has become one of the biggest events in the area — attracting over 20,000 people over the weekend. More than just fun, the Iowa Rabbit Festival raises money for local civic groups and schools, making it a wonderful way to support the community while having a great time.
Louisiana Crawfish Boil Championships When: March 29 Where: Marrero, Louisiana Admission: $18–$30 Website: Bit.ly/3Wim38g
Nothing says Louisiana springtime like a crawfish boil, and the Louisiana Crawfish Boil Championships are where the best of the best compete. Now in its 23rd year, the event has been sanctioned as Louisiana’s “official” crawfish boil championship. Watch as over 60 teams compete for cash prizes and the coveted Louisiana Championship Belt, and don’t miss the chance to enjoy all the crawfish you can eat.
Ginger-Glazed Mahi Mahi Inspired by AllRecipes.com
Ingredients • 3 tbsp honey • 3 tbsp soy sauce • 3 tbsp balsamic vinegar • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 tsp grated fresh ginger root
• 3 cloves garlic, minced • 4 (6-oz) mahi mahi fillets • Salt and pepper to taste • 2 tbsp vegetable oil • Cooked brown rice, for serving
off. By appealing rather than accepting UNUM’s denial, he secured the financial support he needed and was able to focus on healing and exploring alternative vocational options.
Directions 1. In a shallow bowl, mix honey, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, ginger, and garlic. 2. Season fish fillets with salt and pepper, then place them skin-side down in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 25 minutes. 3. Add vegetable oil to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove fish fillets and add to skillet, reserving marinade. Fry fish for 4–5 minutes on each side, turning only once, until fish flakes easily with a fork. Remove fillets to a serving platter and keep warm. 4. Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet. Simmer over medium heat until reduced to a glaze. Spoon glaze over fish and serve over brown rice.
James had paid premiums for years to protect himself in the event of a disability, and he received the benefits he had deserved. It
was an honor to help such a determined individual overturn an unfair denial.
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