Shaw AFB Timeline (Ankylosing Spondylitis)

I'm not sure I can answer that question. There are a lot of factors that the DAWG looks at. With those limitations and being SF I would assume that they will recommend a full MEB. As far as timeline from the DAWG's recommendation to the MEB actually starting I am not sure. As far as your concerns about PCS'ing, I wouldn't plan on going anywhere, if they recommend full MEB, for about a year.
 
Thanks for your reply, I'm actually not planning on PCSing. My PCM is the one who's leaving and she been pushing things along for me. im assuming I'll be found unfit with such limiting conditions and for being in such and active career field.
 
So....Im still in and waiting on the VA to complete new ratings....I went to the FPEB almost 4 months ago now. Good news is I sew on MSgt 1 Jan.
 
AdamRozek,

I have a question about your experience so far.

I was diagnosed with AS back in Sept. My PCM took down my NARSUM and I was coded 37 on Dec 19 2016. I called the MEB office here said it was forwarded to AFPC on Dec 21 2016. I am an E5 with 7 years AD (hit 8 in May).

I reviewed your timeline and had a couple of questions. When you were notified by the PEBLO 9 Nov 2015, was that after the initial AFPC review? The charts I have read say: 1. DAWG initial, 2. PCM NARSUM, 3. DAWG final decision, 4. AFPC decision for disposition (which is either C code or IDES). I have read alot, but still new.

I ask because the clinic has been completely silent here (Im at Hurlburt Field) and I have been calling them, not them calling me. I only know the process because of this forum and other awesome and informative websites. I was fortunate enough to sit down with my PCM on her lunch break and did my entire NARSUM face to face (she is awesome), and I was able to make sure my commander (through the Shirt) worded everything correctly.

Also, what were some of the helpful items you gathered for your diagnosis? I have read and followed Col. Parkers guide to getting Spondylitis rated (which is awesome, keep up the good work sir), but still asking around. That guide is pure gold, and took all of my guess work out so far.

If they give me flak, then Ill fire back with a rebuttal (thank you for posting yours by the way, that is something I will keep as well).

If anyone else has some advice, please chime in.

Thank you and good luck!
 
Yes the 9 Nov 2015 was following the IPEB's decision to do a full MEB. Your PEBLO will let you know if you will be doing a full MEB or if you can return to duty with a C code and RILO every year. If they order a full MEB the date you get briefed by your PEBLO will be the first date in my timeline.
 
I contacted the Office of Airmens Counsel again to try and get an update on why my case has been delayed for so long. The response I got was that the VA forgot to inclued the "corrected CS" with my case file. They have requested it from the VA twice now and still have not received it. I just emailed my congressman. It might not do me any good but could help someone else out to get some visibility on this terrible process that has me stressed out and my family worried about how we are going to secure income after my service is complete. No one will hire you if you don't know when you can start.
 
It was a long process, but I am finally done.
 
Adam, I sent you a PM but thought I'd share my stuff on the thread for others as well.

I've got AS and was found unfit in the PEB. I just got my ratings:
DoD: 40% for Ankylosing Spondylitis under code 5240 (No 5002 rating)

VA: 70%
40% Ankylosing Spondylitis
30% Irritable Bowel Syndrome
10% Broken Hand
10% each for patellar tendonitis in each knee
10% Tinnitus
Several 0% ratings for other minor issues.

I'm going to contact the OAC tomorrow. My PEBLO has mentioned that I should consider taking the 40% and retire then fight for a higher rating once I get out and get my retirement card. Is there any validity to this? She said she's seen a few people lose retirement by requesting a VA Review and getting a lower rating.

The real kicker is that I did extensive research beforehand. I showed up to my C&P exams with Mr. Parker's letter and several VA Case files trying to ensure they filled out the 5002 questionaire. What I got instead was a harsh talking to from the Administrative Medicine folks and a Filled out 5002 questionaire for Rheumatoid Arthritis which I do not have and have never claimed to have. It was filled out with all the questions answered no (Since I don't have it) instead of filled out for my AS.

Any advice? I'll keep you posted as I hear more.
 
Adam, I sent you a PM but thought I'd share my stuff on the thread for others as well.

I've got AS and was found unfit in the PEB. I just got my ratings:
DoD: 40% for Ankylosing Spondylitis under code 5240 (No 5002 rating)

VA: 70%
40% Ankylosing Spondylitis
30% Irritable Bowel Syndrome
10% Broken Hand
10% each for patellar tendonitis in each knee
10% Tinnitus
Several 0% ratings for other minor issues.

I'm going to contact the OAC tomorrow. My PEBLO has mentioned that I should consider taking the 40% and retire then fight for a higher rating once I get out and get my retirement card. Is there any validity to this? She said she's seen a few people lose retirement by requesting a VA Review and getting a lower rating.

The real kicker is that I did extensive research beforehand. I showed up to my C&P exams with Mr. Parker's letter and several VA Case files trying to ensure they filled out the 5002 questionaire. What I got instead was a harsh talking to from the Administrative Medicine folks and a Filled out 5002 questionaire for Rheumatoid Arthritis which I do not have and have never claimed to have. It was filled out with all the questions answered no (Since I don't have it) instead of filled out for my AS.

Any advice? I'll keep you posted as I hear more.
Welcome to the PEB Forum! :)

Indeed, congratulations on the recent receipt of your IPEB findings! :D

In my opinion for sure, trying to "fix" administrative errors after becoming a military disabled veteran which occurred while on active duty when in the DoD IDES process shall be a troublesome battle to fight. Your PEBLO is partially correct albeit it's always a chance that a PEB finding will or will not get changed from submitting a PEB appeal. Do what you believe is right for your own particular DoD IDES case file. Take care!

Thus, I quite often comment that "possessing well-informed knowledge is truly a powerful equalizer!"

Best Wishes!
 
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