Finalapproach

To all, I appreciate the support. I will follow-up with Lt Smith. JDCitizen, It did not go to the SG. Only MEPS physician reviewing ER abstract only.

Folks, I have to tell you that I am still in shock! Back in 2005 after I went for a checkup (after the event) the urologist told me that it was all due to me running in FL weather and not hydrating myself properly. Originally from NY/NJ area, so I had to acclimate myself to running in FL. Unfortunately, the kidney stone was the hard (painful) lesson. But, physically I am tiptop shape. I truly want to serve Active Duty. My Plan B was going into a lucrative private practice in the NY/NJ area. Its actually setup and really not a bad deal. But that is not what I truly want. I want to fight this. I have done some research on the subject matter. Its stated, "technically possible for the recruiting command of the service you're trying to join to go around MEPS and request a medical waiver from their own medical command. The candidate has to be "EXCEPTIONALLY QUALIFIED" and does that particular branch of service need my particular type". Lt.Smith if you give me that name of your recruiter I would greatly appreciate it. I actually sent an email to a LTC AMEDD NY recruiter about this and awaiting his reply. I really want guidance on this cause I want to get over this hurdle. The AOC-73a I am seeking candidacy in is understrength. I know its not going to be easy but I have the persistence to see this through and will not stop until it comes from the top. As I stated in my Motivational Statement, "As a professionally prepared Social Worker I am hoping to seize this opportunity by answering the call of duty per the Wounded Warriors Act of 2007 regarding mental health care needs of the Armed Forces and the shortage of qualified, uniformed mental health professionals". Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Thank You All.

Hello all, I just wanted to stop by and give an update. I received word today that I was medically disqualified for one time "bilateral kidney stone" event in 2005. It was a 2mm stone that was passed after 3 days of intense pain. Since then no problems/recurrences. 3 months ago I had my physician give me the "astronaut physical", LOL, which I passed with flying colors. My physician was surprised my resting pulse rate is 52 beats per minutes. At 44 years of age I am in excellent shape consistenly running and working out for 30 yrs. I had high hopes. But no waivers on this one. Oh well. Time to initiate plan B. Good Luck to all. And thanks again for having me on your site.

itsova9000, Excellent job posting the pics and all. Thanks for sharing.

just_cause, I was looking at that. I am hoping they will give me another 2 yrs for my other Master Degree in Counseling under other educational credit. Who knows? The other issue that I am looking at is one of my professional certifications as (BCD) Board Certified Diplomate SW (its pending) so I may have to introduce that during OBLC as it will not be available during January 09 boards.

Hi Just_cause, I have approximately 20 yrs of direct practice, primarily psychiatric emergency service, intake/assessment, case mgmt, CISD & corrections.

Hi sassysailor, Thank you. Wow great to see another SW on the site. I have worked alongside several RN/MSWs in Psychiatric Emergency Services. Actually the Navy was my 1st choice but due to my age I went with the Army. I have done a lot of research on Army Social Work as there is very little info out there. I come to find out they are understrength at 77% with over 60 billets available. There is a 1 yr SW accession internship one must do after OBLC. So I am pretty psyched about the whole process. Right now its just a waiting game. I am grateful to the site for having me and to all for posting your experiences.

I have been searching the internet for AMEDD OBLC experiences. No site is available that gives first hand, detailed accounts/blogs (including pics) like this one. My mother, a retired 30 yr RN suggested that I try this site. Low and behold a wealth of information that I am thankful to you all for posting. I am not a nurse but a social worker. I am in the processing of submitting my packet to the Jan. '09 boards. I am a candidate for Army MSC active duty social work aka AOC 73a. So far all looks good. I have been preparing for well over a year. So I am excited and ready. Right now I am utilizing available sources such as the AR 135-100 to understand and breakdown, "constructive credit". My healthcare recruiter doesn't know what my rank will be. He believes I will make CPT based on my graduate degrees, professional certifications and experience. In the mean time I am running, lifting, exercising and learning as much as I can about the Army. Looking forward to serving alongside you all one day. Once again Thank You all and God Bless.