<p>My son had childhood mild asthma, some headaches as a child, no symptoms either of these since age 8. Now he is 17, and his recent possible problems are: he fainted once last year after cutting himself deeply in Biology Lab. He currently has mild spring pollen allergies.
Is he going to be DQ?
I filled out the forms, answering everything completely honestly and he has his DODMERB physical this week.
I am reading some experiences on message boards and am really scared for him! He's done so much work on these applications (USNA/NROTC) and it seems they should just tell you upfront to skip applying if you have ever been treated for these types of things?!</p>
<p>My daughter also had childhood asthma, so the same questions apply to us. However, a family friend whose son is currently a Plebe has been encouraging us to push ahead. Her son didn't have asthma, but was initially turned down for a different medical reason. It took some intervention by their family physician, who had been an AF flight surgeon, but S made it in. Don't give up if Navy is what Kevin really wants!</p>
<p>My son, who is presently training at Camp Buckner, West Point, also had childhood asthma and still has pollen allergies. And I once fainted while watching my dog's paw being sewn up by a vet, though not when my own leg was being sewn up after my brother thought it was a tree and cut it with a chain saw.</p>
<p>As far as being dq'ed for the asthma it depends on the type of asthma; and while not a medical doctor or on the medical examination board, it doesn't sound like your child has the type that will keep him out. The other issues seem even less problematic, but again you won't know until you get the results of the examination.</p>
<p>It's also best to take the "never say die" attitude to applying to the service academies.</p>
<p>And even if Kevin is found to be medically disqualified, waivers are granted in many instances. The Navy doesn't tell you up front not to apply despite having had these symptoms because they are not necessarily a problem.</p>
<p>The best thing you can do is complete the DoDMERB exam as quickly as possible, just in case something does kick out that requires more information- or testing- on your son's part. </p>
<p>For example- many kids with childhood asthma outgrow it- so having PFT's done can often negate the history- so having time to do the necessary follow-up, have it reported for consideration, all takes time....so a jump start on the process is a good thing!</p>
<p>I like WPson's "never say die" attitude....
to which I will add, "nothing ventured, nothing gained"...</p>
<p>best of luck!</p>
<p>Fight any DQ, no matter what. I was DQed for 4 different things last year, and ended up rebutting them all and getting qualified for the main three SAs and NROTC. Write a good cover letter for your rebuttal packets explaining why you want the rebuttal, and how much you want to serve. Also have your Dr. write a personal letter explaining that the condition will in no way affect your military service. Always rebut, because even if you fail what you submit will help you get a waiver.</p>
<p>I cannot speak to the migraines or fainting but our son, who is going through plebe summer now, was DQ'd for asthma last year and we were successful in getting a waiver granted (obviously :) ). So, if you guys do run into a problem, don't give up! These CC forums have lots of great info on how to proceed if there is a medical issue. Just do a search under "asthma" and you'll find tons of info. Also, your BGO should have some good advice on how to handle things.
I don't think though, from info you provided, that you will run into any issues with asthma as the problem has to have shown itself from age 13 or later. Also, my son has allergies and they didn't pose a problem. I think the fact that he is a distance runner (track and XC) may have helped there.</p>