Disability Claims for Cancer Survivors: When Treatment Ends but the Side Effects Don’t

For many people, completing cancer treatment is a significant milestone—often celebrated as a return to “normal life.” But for countless survivors, that moment is followed not by relief, but by the slow realization that remission does not mean recovery. Side effects like chronic fatigue, nerve damage, and cognitive problems can persist for months or even years. These residual symptoms often make it impossible to return to work, even when the cancer is no longer detectable.

At Disability Insurance Law Group, our claims attorneys help cancer survivors across the country file and fight for long-term disability (LTD) benefits when ongoing side effects interfere with their ability to earn a living. If your insurer minimizes your symptoms or denies your claim, you are not alone; we are here to help.

Lingering Fatigue After Cancer Treatment is More Than Just Tiredness

Fatigue is one of the most common and debilitating post-treatment symptoms reported by cancer survivors.

Cancer-related fatigue is not the same as ordinary exhaustion. It is a persistent lack of energy that doesn’t improve with rest and can interfere with even basic daily tasks. Many survivors find themselves sleeping 10 to 12 hours a day and still struggling to focus or function. This level of fatigue makes consistent employment—particularly full-time work—unsustainable.

Insurers often try to dismiss fatigue as “subjective” or not severe enough to warrant benefits. However, with proper medical documentation, fatigue can be clearly shown to have a disabling impact. Our attorneys help claimants work with physicians to capture the full extent of their symptoms and connect them directly to their inability to perform occupational duties.

Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy Can Have Long-Term Effects On Mobility and Function

Nerve damage caused by chemotherapy doesn’t always go away when treatment ends.

Neuropathy—characterized by tingling, numbness, pain, or weakness in the hands and feet—can affect coordination, dexterity, and balance. It can be especially disabling for professionals who rely on fine motor skills, physical movement, or the ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

When reviewing claims, insurers may question whether neuropathy is truly work-preventing. But even minor nerve damage can interfere with everything from typing and lifting to walking safely. We work with clients and their doctors to document these impairments with functional assessments, treatment records, and personal impact statements.

Cognitive Impairment Affects More Than Memory—It Affects Employment

Post-treatment cognitive decline is real, and insurance carriers often overlook it.

Many cancer survivors report difficulties with memory, concentration, problem-solving, and multitasking. These cognitive challenges—called “chemo brain”—can derail the ability to work in fast-paced, analytical, or detail-oriented jobs. This is especially true for finance, law, healthcare, or education professionals.

Because cognitive decline can be hard to quantify, insurers frequently deny claims based on the lack of objective evidence. Our legal team ensures clients receive proper neuropsychological evaluations and gathers corroborating evidence from employers, family members, and medical providers to build a compelling claim.

You don’t have to prove you still have cancer—you have to prove you’re still suffering the effects.

Cancer Remission Doesn’t Erase The Damage It Caused

If your disability insurance company is denying your claim because your cancer is “cured,” it’s time to fight back. At Disability Insurance Law Group, we understand the long-term toll cancer takes, even after the disease is gone. Our team is here to help you assert your rights, gather strong medical evidence, and pursue the benefits you deserve.

Contact us today at 954-989-9000 or online for a free consultation and let us help you move forward with strength and support.