Posted on Sep 14, 2015
SPC Jillian O'Malley
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I served from 2001-2006. I am 32 years old. In 2006 I was unable to reenlist because of my weight (even though I had consistent PT test scoring 270+ and a few 300s) but I served my whole term and received an honorable discharge. As I put on more and more weight after getting out, I learned I had a metabolism disordered and undergoing gastric bypass would "reset" my metabolism and give me a chance at a normal life again, I was nearly 300 pounds. The surgery work and I have kept off my 140 pound weight loss for almost 6 years now and have competed in 7 half Ironman triathlons and am getting ready for my 3rd full Ironman triathlon. I have a big desire to serve again. I have tried to go back active duty 3 times with 3 denials because of my surgery. I tried to National Guard and same thing. Will this ever become waiver-able? I refuse to lie about it and risk a fraudulent enlistment later
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Responses: 6
LCDR Deputy Department Head
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You are right to not lie about it. I had not heard that this was specifically not waiverable, although it doesn't surprise me. The problem isn't you, it's a precedent and people who would abuse it. I think a time constraint on it (6 years would be plenty) could easily fix this. I would keep trying.

Proud of you keeping it off by the way. That part is harder than many realize.
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Cpl James Waycasie
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If you truly want to serve again then I suggest a detailed letter written to the Secretary of defense, and/or Secretary of State. Recruiters have standard guidelines to go by. Perhaps going outside the box may get the results you desire.
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CSM Charles Hayden
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PLEASE HAVE BLOOD TESTS SEMI-ANNUALLY. A blood test was not thoroughly investigated by my late wife’s GP. She passed of compilations from ?that surgery?
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