Opinion ID: 451980
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: facts

Text: 2 Appellant is a 36-year old high school graduate who formerly worked as a press-operator and a truck driver. It is undisputed that he suffers from two medical problems: a pulmonary disorder known as sarcoidosis, which results in shortness of breath upon overexertion; and a more serious cardiological disorder known as mitral valve prolapse. Kelley has not worked since 1982. 3 In September 1982, Kelley applied for and was denied disability benefits. He requested a hearing before an ALJ and, although he received a notice of his right to counsel, appeared for the hearing unrepresented and waived his right to counsel. The hearing before the ALJ was short (12 minutes, taking up 13 pages of transcript), and consisted of brief testimony by Kelley and by a vocational expert. At the conclusion of the hearing, the ALJ advised that he was going to decide against Kelley. 4 In his March 14, 1983, opinion denying disability, the ALJ found that appellant had a residual functional capacity to perform a full range of light work on a sustained basis; that appellant's complaints of pain were incredible and inconsistent with the medical evidence, insofar as they would prevent him from performing light work; and that under Rule 202.21 of the grid, 20 C.F.R. Part 404, Subpart P, App. 2, Table No. 2, appellant was not disabled. The ALJ noted that appellant appeared to be getting along well as long as he didn't physically overexert himself. The Health and Human Services appeals council denied appellant's request for review. 5 Kelley then commenced this action in district court. The district judge affirmed the Secretary's decision, and this appeal followed.