Sharone

MEMORANDUM ***

In this appeal of a denial of social security disability benefits, we consider whether an administrative law judge (ALJ) erred in concluding that Michael R. Sharone, a forty-four-year-old man who suffers from multiple sclerosis and other ailments, was not “disabled” as defined by the Social Security Act. Sharone has a general equivalence diploma and has worked as a jewel grinder, delivery driver, and dishwasher. He was diagnosed in 1995 with multiple sclerosis. He also suffers from optic neuritis, dermatitis, allergies, depression, and memory problems. Sharone applied for social security disability benefits. An ALJ concluded on March 18,1999, that Sharone was not disabled in that he could do work available in the national economy. Sharone requested that the Social Security Appeals Council review the decision, but the Appeals Council declined the request. The ALJ’s decision thus became the Commissioner’s final decision. Sharone filed a complaint in United States District Court challenging the denial of benefits. The district court granted the Social Security Commissioner’s summary judgment motion.

Sharone now appeals to us, challenging the ALJ’s conclusion that he…