Expert: Cynthia Bedell - 7/21/2008

Question
Hello, my son is in basic training right now at Ft. Sill OK. He has been there since June 10, 2008 and is due back on Aug. 21, 2008. I have Multiple Sclerosis (I am his mother). He just called today and explained to me that he is having the same symptoms that I have with my disease. The fatigue and numbness with tingling in the extremities. He said they were going to test him there at basic training. What will happen if it turns out that he does have MS? He is doing the Split option so that he can start college this fall. Will he loose his money? What should we expect?

Answer
Dear Lynn --

If the Army diagnoses your son with multiple sclerosis during basic training, he will receive an entry level discharge, and he will not get any military medical care after his discharge.  He will be released from all his commitments under his contract, but he will also lose any bonus or college money associated with his contract.  His current pay and benefits are his to keep, and he will continue receiving pay, until his actual discharge date.

Depending on his discharge code and classification he might be eligible for limited veterans' administration benefits.  He might be eligible for a continuation of his Tricare Medical Insurance at a monthly price to hold him over until he can make arrangements for other medical insurance.  Please advise him to ask about that at his out-processing, if they do discharge him.

Please write back, if you have additional questions during the medical board and discharge process.  Good luck to both of you.