Thanks Doug! The last few months have given me a lot of time to reflect and try to rationalize what happened to me. No one ever wants to hear that they have Cancer. But toss in the complexities of our profession and governing medical oversight; it adds a huge insecurity into the mix. You're terrified of the diagnosis and for me, even more terrified of the implications it may have on the career.
I'm happy to answer questions about my journey. The one thing I learned is that I'm blessed. I had amazing support from friends and family. I had access to cutting edge treatment modalities. I had an employer that never once made me feel insecure about the future of my position. I have an amazing AME that was patient and helped guide me through the special issuance process. I didn't speak to AMAS or left seat or any of medical advisory services. I'm not discounting the product and support they offer, just in my situation, it was relatively straight forward and I never got to the point where I felt it was necessary.
I'll admit. On diagnosis I assumed my career was over. We hear the horror stories about the fight and struggle to regain certification. But I'm proof it can be done. Provide what they ask for. I think one of the best pieces of advice I received was to go through my regional office. I submitted a detailed narrative of my diagnosis and treatment with electronic copies of my doctors progress notes. There's a specific format the FAA wants and most docs adhere to the structure. I sent that about 2 weeks before my last therapy was due. Once I finished all treatments, I sent in the final progress note and a few days later , special issuance in hand.
It can be done. Believe it. We all wish we have a crystal ball doing times of uncertainty. I spent so much time agonizing about getting the medical back when I should have been focusing on resting and repairing my mind and body during the 3 modalities I endured.
I'm an open book. I'm happy to share my journey as much as I possibly can publicly or via PM. Thanks again Doug for your continuing support and compassionate empathy.
