I know this has been mentioned before, but I also know that it is buried somewhere within all of the information on this website so I thought I would create a new thread.
This is for all people going to COT 10-06 in August.
If you are on Facebook, we have a Facebook page started that you will be able to find called "US Air Force COT 10-06" Join the group or post questions and messages on here.
Specializes in ED. ICU, PICU, infection prevention, aeromedical e.
To you new COT people.... welcome to the blue.
Enjoy your next few weeks!
One of you is coming to Lackland ICU..... I don't know who. But drop me a line, I know it's nice to have help at a new place and I'm willing and able. :)
I also have a thyroid issue. I was diagnosed with Grave's disease in 2000, did a one time oral radiation treatment and have been considered "hypothyroid" ever since and take daily Synthroid. I had to submit all my medical records regarding the initial diagnosis and treatment and my yearly lab results including my most recent that had to be less than 3 months old, prior to being approved for MEPS. I knew from my own research that "any history of hyperthyroidism (which Grave's is a form of) was disqualifying", however, at MEPS the doc looked over all my stuff and pulled out his regulation book and cleared me based on the fact the I now have stable hypothyroidism controlled by my meds! Yeah! I did not even require a waiver!! I am now awaiting my chief nurse interview that is supposed to be Sept 10 in Oklahoma City and then my packet is supposed to go before the Nov board. My MEPS experience wasn't bad at all. I would suggest leaving everything locked in your car other than your driver's license and social security card. I also wore a light zip up jacket and was grateful for it. Also, be prepared to stand around in your undies and bra in a freezing cold room with strangers! I was glad I bought some hipster style undies and a "full coverage" bra just for the occasion. I arrived at 0530 and was finished by 1300 which wasn't bad at all. Best wishes to the COT class starting today! You all are in my thoughts and prayers!!
Thank you for sharing your story. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism 10 years ago. I gave a letter my MD and last 2 recent labs. I don't have anything from when I was diagnosed, I don't even remember my physician's name from back then so I hope what I sent will suffice. I als had a vasal vagal episode 6 months ago so I am not sure how far I will get. I sent an MD letter and a recent EKG. I know these are not immediate disqualifiers, but they could cause problems. I am not sure what they ask for or if they get your medical records on their own. I worry that I may have forgot something from years past and it may come up and they'll dismiss my application. I guess its a waiting game and only time will tell. I've read alot on this site, some things that seem obsurd are disqualifiers and other things you would think would be problems turn out not to be. No one can say. My recruiter says it has alot to do with who reviews your history. Some days I feel optomistic, other days I feel its useless. I have decided to just stay calm and wait since there is not much you can do.
Thanks again for your reply I appreciate your insight.
Specializes in cardiology, med/surg, endo/day surgery.
Hi all, I'm currently waiting for orders/acceptance. I was told there would likely be the possibility for January if I hear by Thanksgiving at the latest. The packet went out a month ago completed. The recruiter said now it was wait and see. I'm 37 and see I'm not alone in chosing the Air Force later in life. I had planned on while in high school. I got my ADN right out of school then got married to a guy who was entering the military. Well, at that point my needs became secondary and I became a mom and military wife. I should have joined back then and kick myself now. I see quite a few of others are being accepted in their late 30's and early 40's. YAY;) I have divorced and remaried...life has changed. I look forward to travel and change since life has once again changed for me. I have one child with me (11yrs old).
I do worry that my ex-spouse (who is still in the military active for the next 4 years) will try and be ugly...to cause me any problems with my daughter. I know that I would be a captain if accepted and he's enlisted...so hope to have the upper hand in that case. I would have her step dad with her if I get deployed. Any thoughts out there?
I have some relatives and old friends that think I'm nuts! They don't understand why a 37 year old nurse with 16 years of varied experience (now in ICU) would do this. I have explained the changes associated with the health care reform and I'm not seeing improvements in my hospital with staffing...this is coming quickly and there's a health care deficit. I would rather feel a part of something bigger than me and feel the pride associated with the US Air Force.
My one other worry is that I have had a hard time with push ups. I can't get them off of my knees and understand we have to do a guy's version from the toes. I can do them OK from the knees..haven't managed even one from the toes . I can run the 1 1/2 miles within the time and can do the sit ups. I need to push myself. Any tips and should I just be discouraged?
Ok, that's it. I have vented on my spouse (who supports me and is retired military, too) I have vented on a few friends and family...not helpful. I get "DON'T do it" and no understanding of my feelings of being a part of the military...I get "aren't you too old" and a lot of other discouraging occassional remarks....*sigh*
I would appreciate any input and words of wisdom or encouragement...Thanks
@Tina.... The last thing you want to do is look back and wonder "what if"!! I'm on the same boat, but 35... I've always wanted to join but life changes and procrastination always got in the way. I'm committed to the decision to join along with my family and more than likely will be in lackland according to the recruiter. I'm also waiting for end of november board. I'm hopeful and excited!!! Don't listen to those "haters".... Theyre more than likely envious of the fact you still are continuing to follow your dream and are in a place to actually pursue them!
Specializes in cardiology, med/surg, endo/day surgery.
thanks sticu-arnp! i appreciate it all:) i got word today from the recruiter that indeed i won't hear until thanksgiving time frame. i will likely hear about the same time that you do. i hope that january works out, but we'll see...i have read many posts that indicate we might have to wait a month or two longer. i put in for langley first, but lackland is my second choice...due to the big hospital there. langly is a wish...then i could stay put since we already have a home here and would drive about an hour. i wish you lots of luck, too. any advice on the push ups?
I think the best thing we can do for ourselves is to stretch and work on conditioning to avoid injury. As we prep for the PT, our conditioning should be up to par but unless you work out regularly prior to ever thinking of joining the military, we can never be to safe. I truly feel we'll all be alright when it comes to the PT. Like my recruiter told me.. " the air force needs us more for our skills and knowledge not so much for our brawn". That's not stopping me from exercising regularly and I'm using this as a good excuse to develop a great habit/ routine even after COT.
. I can run the 1 1/2 miles within the time and can do the sit ups. I need to push myself. Any tips and should I just be discouraged?
midinphx, BSN
855 Posts
To you new COT people.... welcome to the blue.
Enjoy your next few weeks!
One of you is coming to Lackland ICU..... I don't know who. But drop me a line, I know it's nice to have help at a new place and I'm willing and able. :)