Has anyone stayed in the military with a J-pouch? I was discharged a few years back, but the docs said they could keep me in if I wanted. I'm thinking of trying to get back in. Thanks.

Depends on the branch of service that you were in. You need to take all of your medical docs to the recruiter so they can determine if they can do a medical waiver. When did you get your J-pouch? Can you pass the PT test? It may also depend on your job specialty. Good luck.

I got it in 1999. I can pass the PT test.

JD,

I'd say that the best thing to do is talk to a recruiter and see. Did you serve your full commitment, or were you "boarded out"? If you were boarded, you'll probably have a tough row to hoe because you'll need to show that your condition and limitations have somehow improved over what caused you to be discharged. If you just didn't reenlist, then it will probably come down to your induction physical and the doctor's opinion. The regulations are not black and white on our situation (trust me I've studied them hard). Its easier to stay in than it is to get in, but I've been in since I had the surgery at Ft. Sam in 2001. That said, I've kept my head down and the issue hasn't really come up yet. Someday it probably will and we'll see what happens.

Your desire to serve at this point in time is admirable and I wish you good luck if you decide to pursue it.

Chris

I have had a j-pouch and was allowed to stay in the military; however, I am boarded each year the military docs think it may just be a matter of time since I am not deployable...