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Lessons Between the Lines
HOW COFFEE, CONVERSATIONS, AND COLLEGE SHAPED MY CALLING
Aug. 30 is National College Colors Day, and whenever it rolls around, I find myself pulled back to my whirlwind years at Youngstown State University, not just for the classes and campus pride, but for the gritty, beautiful, and sometimes chaotic rhythm of a life built around books, back-to-back shifts, and the people who shaped my path long before I ever stepped into a law firm. By day, I was a full-time student, shuffling between philosophy lectures and political science seminars on the downtown campus. But between those classes, for a stolen hour or two, I hustled over to George’s News, an old-school newsstand tucked into the pulse of downtown Youngstown. It was the kind of place with spinning wire racks of magazines and the scent of coffee that never quite left your clothes. We sold everything from newspapers and candy bars to lottery tickets and cigars, but the real value was in the people. Judges and lawyers from the courthouse came in daily, brushing shoulders with business folks, commuters, and regulars who carried the wear of hard lives and quiet stories. Just next door stood subsidized housing, home to many who had experienced hardships I previously wouldn’t have been able to imagine. They wandered over to George’s for conversation, coffee, or simply a few moments of warmth. We gave coffee away and offered a listening ear. It was raw, real, and more educational than any textbook. As the sun set, I would head to my second job at The Boulevard Tavern, a neighborhood Italian joint where the red sauce was sacred and the regulars came with stories older than the wallpaper. The place was a time capsule, right down to the never-changing menus and checkered tablecloths. My dad grew up in that neighborhood, and many of the folks I served had been eating there longer than I had been alive.
The kitchen was run by older women who had ladled soup and spun pasta in that very restaurant for nearly 60 years. Chookie was one of them — tough as nails, generous to a fault, pure gold. On nights she worked, I drove her home. She would plant a kiss on my cheek and say, “Thank you, honey,” with the kind of sincerity that sticks with you. I worked six days a week — classes, newsstand, restaurant, repeat. Sundays were sacred: the only day off, spent buried in books at the campus library. At the time, I would daydream about having more free time. But now, looking back, I see how much more I gained. Those jobs taught me how to connect with people across every walk of life. They showed me how to listen, adapt, and care. Today, as a Social Security disability attorney, those lessons are at the heart of everything I do. Our clients come to us during the hardest seasons of their lives, overwhelmed, uncertain, sometimes unheard. And I remember the faces at the newsstand, the laughter at the tavern, the stories told over coffee and pasta. Everyone has something they carry. Everyone deserves compassion.
Our clients face immense challenges, many through no fault of their own. And just like the folks I met at the newsstand or the tavern, they need someone to listen. Someone to advocate for them. Someone to stand by them when life gets overwhelming. That is what we do. That is what I love about this work. And every day I walk into our office, I carry those lessons with me.
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3 HABITS THAT LEAD TO A MORE FULFILLING LIFE Small Changes, Big Impact
We all want to live long, happy, and fulfilling lives, but doing so can be challenging. We must intentionally reduce stress and bring more balance to our lives. This doesn’t necessarily mean we must overhaul our lives and find new jobs and friends while removing anything that doesn’t bring us joy. Instead, we can make simple changes to our day-to-day routine that can significantly impact our perspective, happiness, and overall well-being. Want to improve your outlook and get more enjoyment from life? Try incorporating the following behaviors into your routine! Spend more time in nature. You’ve probably heard countless times how beneficial spending time in the great outdoors can be for your mental health and overall well-being, but that just shows how valuable it is. You don’t have to take up hiking or visit a national park to get your fill of nature. Simply taking a walk through your neighborhood or
enjoying some time in the backyard will help you boost your health and connect with the world around you.
Practice gratitude. Stress and difficult situations can overshadow so much good in our lives. Take some time each day to reflect on the blessings in your life and show your appreciation for those who matter most to you. If you have a hard time finding things to focus on, consider picking up journaling. Keeping a gratitude journal is a great way to boost your mental well-being and gain more appreciation for life. Don’t be afraid to say no. One of the most difficult things in life is telling others “No,” especially to your friends and family. However, failing to say no can negatively affect your mood and perspective. Make time for yourself, and don’t be afraid to turn down invites or requests if they impede your personal time or ask you to do something overwhelming or stressful.
THERE’S HOPE AFTER A DENIAL HOW THE SSDI APPEALS PROCESS HAS CHANGED (AND WHY THAT’S GREAT FOR YOU)
Faster Results and New Reasons for Optimism The SSA has made great strides in reducing delays. In 2024, average wait times for hearing decisions dropped to 342 days, down from 450 in 2023. For those facing urgent medical or financial issues, critical cases are now being resolved in about 201 days. With the hearing caseload at its lowest in 30 years and new technologies in place to process files faster, the SSA aims to reduce average wait times even further in 2025. Updated Medical Listings and Easier Documentation The SSA has also revised medical criteria for several conditions, including cardiovascular, digestive, neurological, and skin disorders. They’ve also made it easier to submit financial hardship claims and adopted new software that speeds up the evaluation of medical opinions. These improvements can help ensure your documentation is not only accurate but also quickly and properly assessed. Facing a denial isn’t the end; it’s the beginning of a second chance. With the right support and a team that understands these updated rules inside and out, your appeal has a strong shot at success. Let our dedicated team help you take full advantage of the post-pandemic improvements to the SSDI process.
If your application for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits was denied, you may feel discouraged, but don’t lose hope. In fact, the process of appealing that decision has become more efficient and claimant-friendly in the years since the pandemic began. Significant updates to Social Security Administration (SSA) policies, procedures, and technologies have made appealing a denial more manageable than ever before. New Rules That Could Work in Your Favor The SSA has introduced several changes that aim to streamline the appeals process. For example, they’ve shortened the work history period considered relevant to five years ( down from 15 ), and they’ve stopped counting jobs that lasted fewer than 30 days. This means your most recent positions, not distant or short-lived jobs, carry the most weight when assessing your case. Attending a disability hearing is no longer a one-size-fits-all process. You now have four options: in-person, by phone, by secure online video, or at an SSA office via video using their equipment. Each format is equally valid, giving you more freedom and comfort in how you appear for your hearing. Whether you’re homebound or prefer face-to-face discussion, there’s a way to make it work for you.
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Fabian’s First Year: Helping Clients and Hitting Goals FROM INTAKE TO LSAT, OUR ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT IS JUST WARMING UP
Cheesy Tomato-Basil Stuffed Chicken
INGREDIENTS •
4–6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts 1/2 cup basil pesto
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2 cups cherry tomatoes, divided 2 cloves garlic, smashed 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
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• • • •
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Chili flakes, to taste 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
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1/3 cup oil-packed sun- dried tomatoes, drained, oil reserved
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1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves Salt and pepper, to taste
DIRECTIONS 1. Preheat oven to 425 F. 2. Slice chicken down the middle horizontally (not cutting all the way through). 3. Spread pesto inside filleted chicken, then stuff with cheese and tomatoes before closing chicken, covering filling. 4. Place chicken in a large oven-safe skillet. Drizzle with reserved oil. 5. Set the skillet over medium heat; cook 5 minutes. 6. Add 1 1/2 cups tomatoes, garlic, balsamic vinegar, and season with chili flakes. Cook 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat. 7. Bake in oven for 7–10 minutes until chicken is cooked through and tomatoes burst. 8. Toss remaining 1/2 cup tomatoes with basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. 9. Serve the chicken topped with fresh tomatoes.
If you’ve spoken with our team in the past year, there’s a good chance you’ve had the pleasure of connecting with Fabian Teixeira. He’s been with Keefe Disability Law for just over a year now, and while he was featured in our newsletter when he joined the firm, we thought it was time to check in and see what he’s been up to. Spoiler alert: quite a lot!
Fabian joined the firm in a hybrid role, splitting his time between intake and case management. That early flexibility gave him space to explore where he thrived, and we’re glad to say he’s found his rhythm supporting our clients with clarity, warmth, and care. Outside of the office, Fabian’s been on a mission. Since February 2025, he’s been hitting the gym five to six days a week, and he’s already lost an incredible 40 pounds! He’ll be the first to tell you: “The job is not finished yet,” but we’re cheering him on every step of the way. And it’s not just personal growth; there’s a proud family milestone worth celebrating, too. His sister recently graduated from Villanova University with a major in finance and a minor in psychology. Ambition and determination most definitely run in the family! So, what does Fabian enjoy most about his work? “Spreading happiness and support to our clients,” he says. Whether it’s a simple update call or helping someone feel heard during a stressful time, he values the moments of connection that make a real difference in people’s lives. As for what’s next? Fabian is deep in LSAT prep, aiming for one final retake this summer to get the highest score possible. His goal is to apply to law school in fall 2025, and we’re not surprised! He has the heart, drive, and dedication that make him an outstanding advocate. We’re proud to have Fabian as part of the Keefe Disability Law family. Whether he’s answering phones, hitting the books, or lifting weights, he shows up with purpose and heart every single day. Keep an eye on him — he’s just getting started.
Inspired by HalfBakedHarvest.com
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Share Your Story! Do you want to share a story about your disability claim, experience with Keefe Disability Law, or just a funny story in general? Contact Andrea at 1-800-776-2929 or via email at Patrick@KeefeLaw.com, and you could be featured in our next newsletter!
inside this issue 385 Court St., Suite 210 • Plymouth, MA 02360 1-800-776-2929 • KeefeLaw.com
What 2 Service Jobs Taught Patrick That College Couldn’t The Path to a Happier You
1 2 3
Denied SSDI? Now Is the Best Time to Appeal Fabian’s Year of Growth — In and Out of the Office Cheesy Tomato-Basil Stuffed Chicken Inexpensive and Memorable Grandparent- Grandchild Activities
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FUN AND FRUGAL IDEAS FOR GRANDKIDS Cost-Conscious Connections
Utilize Community Resources Your local library or community center likely hosts a variety of free or inexpensive activities. From story hours to craft days, these events are for family fun and learning. Also, be sure to check out any local festivals. Build and Create Look out for free classes at local hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s, where kids can engage in projects like building a birdhouse. These workshops promise a good time and give the kids something to take home and be proud of. Hometown Tourism Lastly, don’t underestimate the joy of simple activities. A picnic in the park, flying a kite, or a day playing board games can be just as exciting and meaningful as any expensive outing.
local plants and wildlife, or even participate in volunteer activities. The fresh air, the sounds of birds, and the chance to explore are perfect for curious young minds (and those young at heart!). Share Your Hobbies Do you have a knack for knitting or a passion for golf? Chances are that your grandkids would love to learn! Sharing your hobbies can be a fun, practically free way to spend time together. Whether it’s a morning fishing trip to a nearby lake or an afternoon crafting, these moments can become cherished memories. Discover Local Gems Smaller, lesser-known museums or factory tours can be fascinating and won’t hurt your wallet. They’re often just the right scale for shorter attention spans and are usually less crowded. Plus, they sometimes offer discounts or free days — don’t forget to ask!
Summer vacation is the golden opportunity to make precious memories with your grandkids without breaking the bank! While life’s hustle and bustle can sometimes throw a wrench in your plans, creativity can go a long way. Here are six ways to have a blast with the kiddos on a budget. Explore Nature Together Nothing beats getting outside! Many local nature preserves offer free or low-cost access, and they’re great places to hike, learn about
• 1-800-776-2929 • KeefeLaw.com
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