Well, I got the news today. The HIMS AME in Miami advised me that I should continue for another 6 months in an aftercare program for the special issuance medical certificate. She said that she didn't think the FAA would approve my application for special issuance at this time.

What I've decided to do is to stay in the aftercare program until September 2010. On October 3, 2010, which will be 3 years to date that I started this process and 2+ years since my last drink, I will re-apply for my medical certification and believe that I should be able to walk out of the AME's office with at least a 2nd class medical. Since I had a DUI back in 1986 and went through rehab at that time, the FAA suggested that I get a HIMS evaluation. In addition since I had 3 charges bought against me in 2003 & 2005, although they were dropped, the FAA contended that I had a personality disorder....which IMO is bs, however....."He whose bread I eat, his song I sing".

Man....I'm disappointed. I was really anticipating on heading out sometime in January, but it doesn't look like that going to happen. I wish I had made better decisions when I was younger but I didn't. That's ok, because I'm not that person anymore.

I will say this, once I do get medically certified, those who may go through this process I'm going through, I will help as much as I can. This has truly been and continues to be a learning process for me.

I'll keep you guys posted.




atp

 

One Day at a Time my Friend.

Very best wishes as you trudge down the road to happy destiny.

P.164

 

Sorry to hear it, but in this climate six months probably won't make much of a difference. Keep saving up.

 

I know it may not relate, but it took me 2 years to get my medical because of ADHD and medications. I had to go two years without any meds before they would allow me to re-apply. As you can see, it all worked out in the end. Just keep at it and pray, it will come.

 

Keep going, you're doing great!!
fbh

 

Thanks for the support guys. It really means alot.



atp

 

Keep your head up and good luck, and I agree with Rick, probably not going to be a scenary change in 6 months anyways

 

Hi ATP,
Just curious. What degree of support are you getting from your employer? Do you fly as a primary source of income? It is encouraging to see someone, anyone, get the monkey off their back. Best of luck to you.
Chuck

 

Chuck:

I'm not a pilot....yet, however, I'm attempting to be medically certified so that I can head off to Ariben Aviator in Ft Pierce, FL.

The Federal Air Surgeon determined that I was ineligible for an airman's medical cert under Sections 67.107; 67.207; and 67.307(a)(1) and (a)(4). They contend that Imeet the criteria for a personality disorder manifested by overt acts that may be attributed to alcohol or substance abuse. That's what the regs state. Thus the aftercare program and the HIMS evaluation. Once completed, I'm like Prego....I'm in there!!!!!

You know guys, way back when, when I first joined APC, there was a certain fellow APC'er that advise me to be up front and honest with the FAA. I'm so glad that I did and that I took the high road, (no pun intended ), to inform the FAA completely of my past. I don't have any emotional or psychological hinderances in my way or do I have the fear of "being found out". That fellow APC'er.......rickair7777. Thanks for everything rick.

I gotta admit, I teared up today when I re-read the heartfelt responses. It's just that I've been talking about this so long, I just wanna go ahead and get started already!!! I'm still in the hunt. It's just gonna take a little longer.



atp