is ROTC reasonable with possible medical DQs?

[Cheyenne]

I'm currently gearing up to apply for an AROTC or AFROTC scholarship, as I'm a junior in high school. This has always been my goal and plan - however I've realized there are quite a few Medical DQs that apply to me, so I wouldn't want to waste my time if it's certain that I won't be able to get waivers and therefore can't join.

I was diagnosed with asthma as a child (before 13) and it didn't bother me very much after 13 - but I still get the prescription for an inhaler, have used it during a rugby game, and had to use an albuterol inhaler recently during a bout of pneumonia.
I was treated for a depressive episode, but it was resolved and I have been off meds for the appropriate time, with no intention of going back. I also have a note from a psychiatrist officially stating that the depressive episode was resolved and the date I was taken off medication - not sure if that would help my case.
I have fructose malabsorption, and I've read at least for the AF that malabsorptions are a DQ. It's managed well (on my own), no medication taken, and I've found I can now handle fairly large amounts of fructose.
I had chronic headaches for about a year following an accident - treated and resolved (I was 12-13 at the time), but was also briefly treated more recently (16 yrs old) for a flareup of headaches. My neurologist has clearly stated that these headaches are not migraines.

I know this is a lot (and a lot of waivers), so that's why I'm very nervous about whether I should continue dedicating myself to the military, or if I should pursue a plan B. I'm in very good physical condition now (can pass PFT, PFA, rugby player), very good grades and test scores.
Any advice?

 

[kinnem]

That certainly sounds like a lot of potential DQs, especially on the asthma. It does look rather hopeless, but I'm not a DoDMERB doc and I wouldn't be the one to tell you that you can make it through the process successfully. That being said, the only certainty of not getting a scholarship, at this point, is if you don't apply. What do you have to lose, besides some time, when pursuing a dream? Just keep in mind that it may be a long shot and be working alternate plans as well. Good luck in whatever you decide.

 

[Pima]

Sorry, but nobody can give you a yes or no answed because waivers are a case by case situation. The commissioning source decides if the waiver will be granted. You just have to move forward, answer questions honestly and have your medical records ready.

Some are very hard to get waived. Many times it comes down to can you do the mission without medication,or dietary restrictions.can you be deployed to a combat zone with no hospitals?

Have you gone for a spirometry test? I would think because you have had an asthma attack requiring an inhaler (exercise induced) that might be your hardest hurdle.

Also understand that ROTC candidates will not go for their exam until a scholarship is offered. That means it would be a year from now at the earliest (1st board for Afrotc is December). Waivers can take a few weeks or 6 months.
~ This can become stressful if you do not know come April/May regarding the waiver, but you need to know because you attending the dream college is tied to the financial need of the scholarship.

JMPO, I would apply because the worst thing is DQ you with no waiver. You will be able to at least be able to move on without wondering WHAT IF?
Good luck