I was in bootcamp and now have to have surgery. I want to stay in the Navy so how can I prove to them I can do this?

2019-12-31T02:44:02-05:00

While I was at bootcamp in the Navy I lost all feeling in my legs and now I'm facing surgery. I was told by the surgeon it would be a 6 week recovery and I should make a 100% recovery. Apparently I have a congenital problem I didn't even know I had which does not get progressively worse. Anyways, the medical board has already been in contact. I do not want to get out of the Navy but I'm afraid they will kick me out. How long will it take for this to happen. If I recover before it all goes through will I have the ability to prove that. Someone suggested (I don't remember who) I go home for 6 months and they will give me a medical waiver before I get discharged and when I'm clear I just reenlist and since I already have the waiver it won't be an issue. Does this sound correct? I'm so confused. I just want to get this surgery over so I can start recovery and prove my worth. I'm only 18 and was just starting out.

Response by MSgt Michael Smith made Dec 31 at 2019 8:00 AM

2019-12-31T08:00:09-05:00

Sorry to hear this. Unfortunately I think this is mostly out of your hands. The Navy is going to do whatever they deem appropriate. This by no means says that you are going to be ineligible to serve in the future. It is a common procedure to discharge soldiers in these circumstances, with the understanding that they can enlist again when they are recovered. I'm NOT saying that your condition will or will not be an issue if you try to enlist in the future. What I am saying is that being discharged now for a medical condition will not render you ineligible to enlist in the future. Just concentrate on getting better. This is not a failure at all. Just an unfortunate circumstance.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Dec 31 at 2019 10:28 AM

2019-12-31T10:28:44-05:00

You have very little control on this, the Navy will do what is best for the Navy. However, normally MEB move rather slow, it could be possible that it will all pass before the MEB reaches a final decision. They will not give you a waiver when getting out, that will happen when you reapply to re-entry. Keep all your paperwork in a safe place, keep your head up, it's not your fault. Thank you for serving!