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I want to join the military, but...


Fri, November 06, 2009 1:00 AM

I am 23 yrs old and I was diagnosed with U.C in '96, ended  up having an illeostomy for 5 yrs, and got it reversed in 2004. I have since had no problems and dont take any kind of medication, i have no food restrictions or physical restrictions. I visited my doctor and he gave me a waiver to join the military, but the military docs DQ'd me because i have a history of U.C. This is very, very upsetting for me bacause i want more than anyhing to join and i cant seem to find a way around this rediculous call. Anyone please give me some insight, or a direction to go.

FPO jake86
Joined Nov 6, 2009

Thu, December 03, 2009 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for jake86.

My name is Cameron, and I was Retired from Military after 2 and half years for my Crohn's.  While you may feel ok now, this can flare at ANY time, and you do NOT want to be deployed when it does, because there wouldnt be anything worthwhile they could do for you.  Furthermore, if you were in combat when it happened, not only could it get you killed, but it could get your fellow soldiers killed too. 

My recommendation would be to write out a list of the reasons you want to serve.  Then, with a little creativity, I am sure you will be able to come up with other ways to accomplish the same goals.  If not, I am sure there are people here that would be MORE than willing to help you.

FPO camcam925
Joined Dec 3, 2009

Wed, November 11, 2009 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for jake86.

Unfortunately, I do not think there is a loop-hole around.  After reading similar stories on this site, I think the military takes a strong stance on this for YOUR own protection.   Let's face it, the day-to-day unknown is one thing when we are living the life of freedom on US soil.   It is an entirely different animal when in a hole in the midst of an Afghan war.   The military would not be able to guarantee your safety/medical treatment if needed.

Maybe it is time for you to sit down and think about what other strengths you have and what else you enjoy doing.  This will help you figure out what direction to turn next.  

You are very, very young and have the whole world at your fingertips.  

Good luck to you!

Lizzies Mom

FPO lizzies mom
Joined Sep 9, 2009

Sun, November 08, 2009 10:41 PM

 Reply posted for jake86.

 

You can't be a person who has special medical needs and be in the military. You have to be mobile and untethered in the military. Being in remission with UC is not being cured. You will forever be tethered to the medical community, they are your lifeline. You could be in a situation in the military where they would not be able to take care of your UC. Not a good thing. You have to accept that we are damaged goods. I know that this is harsh. It took me a long time to accept my UC for what it is. You have to do the same. I was in the military, four years.

                                                               Joe

FPO joe
Joined Oct 24, 2019

Fri, November 06, 2009 1:00 AM

 Reply posted for jake86.

Hey buddy i got chrons in june of 2008 i am in the air national guard i have been in 13 years i did 4 years active duty air force and now i am full time air national guard. i am getting kicked out for not being fit for millitary duty i was put in for a waiver and also had my doctor say i would be fine but chrons disease and uc are automatic disqualifiers. you might of had a chance to join if you didn't tell them anything about your past but i know the doctors look at you pretty good and if you have scars you have to explain them. on the bright side of thing their are other options to look into the merchant marines are like a civilian navy and go every were the navy goes u could also do peace corps and see the world i don't know much about it and if you want to get shot at you can look into becoming a contractor in the middle east i don't know how hard those jobs are to get but i would say to probably not mention your medical past to much also a cop job or fire fighter kind of have a loose millitary structure u are young and have options

FPO maglpes135
Joined May 9, 2009

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