I had a stroke in Afghanistan, lost my speech, had 4 carotid artery stents placed and learned to speak again and was then returned by the Army to full duty. Then 3 years later had another stroke when I kinked on of my stents doing physical activity (that I never should have been doing because I never should have been returned to full duty). After the second stroke I was placed on a ridiculous profile and referred to the MEB. I work as a civilian in my same MOS and have continued to work as a civilian. So for that reason the PEB found me fit and returned me to duty, with a permanent profile restricting all physical activity (I cant even stand in formation for more than 5 mins). So with the new PT test coming up my commander identified me as not being able to complete it and I was referred again to the MEB process. I just got my 199 with the PEB findings for the second time, and was again found fit. Again they noted that I work as a civilian in my MOS and so should be able to do it in the reserves on the current permanent profile with the current restrictions.
Between the first and second MEB referral I did begin receiving treatment from the VA for not only the stroke related issues but also for depression. The depression seems to be worsened by being at drill and almost every battle assembly having to explain to someone why I cant participate in the soldiering activities. Not only am I reminded of what I cant do, which I used to enjoy, I feel like crap for not participating but still having to be present for all battle assembly activities. I swear I feel like I am scamming and that everyone around me thinks "what the hell is this guy even doing in the reserves?!"
I have a VA rating of 100%, so not only can I not participate at drill, I dont want to because then I end up having to pay the VA back for receiving disability pay and reserve pay at the same time.
I figure this time I will go through the formal appeal process with the PEB. I have nothing to lose.
Is anyone aware of any examples of soldiers that were found fit and the appealed the PEB findings and then as a result of their appeal where changed to unfit? Or is this a waist of time and energy?
Thank you.
Between the first and second MEB referral I did begin receiving treatment from the VA for not only the stroke related issues but also for depression. The depression seems to be worsened by being at drill and almost every battle assembly having to explain to someone why I cant participate in the soldiering activities. Not only am I reminded of what I cant do, which I used to enjoy, I feel like crap for not participating but still having to be present for all battle assembly activities. I swear I feel like I am scamming and that everyone around me thinks "what the hell is this guy even doing in the reserves?!"
I have a VA rating of 100%, so not only can I not participate at drill, I dont want to because then I end up having to pay the VA back for receiving disability pay and reserve pay at the same time.
I figure this time I will go through the formal appeal process with the PEB. I have nothing to lose.
Is anyone aware of any examples of soldiers that were found fit and the appealed the PEB findings and then as a result of their appeal where changed to unfit? Or is this a waist of time and energy?
Thank you.