Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard/Wanting to enlist in the Navy, Med questions

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Expert: - 6/18/2009


Question
Several years ago I had a cholecystectomy (gallbladder
removal) and since have very occasionally had difficulty
with digestion. I saw a GI Doc a year ago (to the day) and
he gave me a prescription to try out (cholestipol), but he
didn't seem to think it'd be beneficial to me as I wasn't
suffering any ill effects at the time. I don't take it now.
The medication did little if nothing and my symptoms had
subsided anyhow. At the time the GI Doc suggested he thought
I might have Celiac disease, but as I understand it I wasn't
showing symptoms for it. I had a blood antibody test and it
came up negative for Celiac.

Also about the same time I had a tympanoplasty to correct a
perforated ear drum, but the surgery went well and to the
best of my knowledge I'm totally healed and good to go.

Would I need a waiver given my medical history? Would I have
to go to my doctor for any kind of documentation? Or is this
something that I can just discuss at MEPS?

Answer
The gall bladder emoval is not an issue, the issue will be the digestion problems you had afetr.  the ear surgery is also a concern and between the two, you will probably have a hard time getting in.  Your chnaces are low, especilally if you still have issues with digestion.

MEPs will need all the medical documents on both surgeries and follow up visits.

Careers: Military--Army, Navy, Airforce, Marines, Coast Guard

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John L

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I am a National Guard recruiter , been doing it for seven years and am a subject matter expert on qualifications for National Guard and I keep up to date on Regular Army regs and programs. I was in the Navy for 4 years and have 13 years in the Guard. I will not sugar coat my answers to you. They are usually short and to the point. If you need more in depth, ask me. Because each situation is different, alot of times you need to actually talk to a recruiter and let them evaluate your situation in person, by looking at your documents, issues etc. If I suggest this, it would be in your best interest to do so. Finally...thank you for your interest in serving this great nation of ours. Very few people can actually make the cut to serve let alone choose to do so. So thank you for wanting to and hopefully you will get a chance. Whatever branch you choose, thank you and good luck.

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13 years Guard experince, combat missions and homeland missions. 7 years recruiting. I have been a platoon sergeant and squad leader. Mentor to new recruiters and recruits.

Education/Credentials
Recruiters course and advanced courses in recruiting

Awards and Honors
Top recruiter in district for FY 2008. Nominated for recruiter of the year for 2010.

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