Returning After Cancer

[-]

YamComprehensive7186@reddit

I went out a couple years ago for cancer treatment (all clear after aggressive treatment) I decided I wasn’t going back and retired early. I’m slowing down and enjoying life. Best of luck to you.

[-]

I was diagnosed with cancer 2 weeks ago. I have a surgery next week and then hopefully after that I can get my paperwork to AMAS so I'm right there with you. Mine is surgical so no chemo and maybe a little radiation. Just wanted to say you're not alone.

[-]

FeatherMeLightly@reddit

You'll be fine, it takes a while to get to the new normal but, unless there is something related to your ability to perform your job, you'll be back in the cockpit.

Your biggest challenge will be the mental game, getting over what just happened and the reflection on life in general that comes with a shitty diagnosis and even shittier treatment.

Just know it's all in your head, no different than being diagnosed with a heart problem or diabetes, ya you'll have to monitor it the rest of your life but, the vast majority of people live mostly normal lives, being a pilot won't be an exception.

Have fun, your almost to the other side of the worst part.

[-]

flyingron@reddit

One word: BASIC MED (ok, that's two words).

[-]

garau@reddit (OP)

121 so not an option unfortunately. Thanks for the suggestion though!

[-]

gromm93@reddit

Don't we live in an enlightened time where "yeah, I had to take a little time off to fight cancer" instead of "you have 4 months to live".

[-]

garau@reddit (OP)

For sure, modern medicine is incredible. Makes me resent the “do your own research” crowd a little more. I think there can be healthy level of research on the disease but as far as treatment I trust my oncology team because, oh yeah they’ve dedicated their lives to this.

[-]

HighVelocitySloth@reddit

I have zero knowledge to your question but I just wanted to say congratulations on beating the Big C. I had it and beat back in 2016 and my wife was just diagnosed 2 weeks ago with breast cancer.

[-]

garau@reddit (OP)

So sorry to hear that. Best of luck to you and your wife.

[-]

Screw_2FA@reddit

Nothing helpful to add. Just following. I’m also undergoing cancer treatment and have been wondering similar although I’m just a CFI. Hopes and prayers for you and your family for a speedy recovery and clear scans the rest of the way.

[-]

garau@reddit (OP)

Same to you. How far along are you in your treatment?

[-]

Screw_2FA@reddit

I did two rounds of chemo and a bunch of radiation and then a surgical consult. It was decided that I needed another four rounds of a different chemo followed by immunotherapy and then I should get cleared for surgery in approx 6-9 months. I know it’s a marathon not a sprint so I’m just trying to stay educated and prepare for the future.

[-]

humboldtreign@reddit

Leukemia survivor here. After treatment I had my doctor write a letter stating that there should be zero concern and no reason to withhold a medical certificate to fly. I brought this letter with me every time I went to go see my AME (I’d have the doc change the date each time, but the wording remained the same). I was on a special issuance cert for probably ten years but don’t have any restrictions now.

Best of luck during recovery!

[-]

rFlyingTower@reddit

This is a copy of the original post body for posterity:

I have been out on medical leave for a little while dealing with cancer. I had surgery a couple weeks ago and am still dealing with the pain, fatigue, and everything else that comes with a major surgery. But now after an intense treatment consisting of chemo, radiation, and the surgery, I am finally able to start thinking about returning to work.

So I was just wondering if anyone else here that has dealt with cancer would be willing to share their experience? I have a doctor at AMAS I have briefly talked to and he informed me that the FAA generally wants a one year observation period, but this is case by case and subject to change. I was just wondering if anyone else here has had this experience of having to wait a year, or if anyone has had the FAA shorten this observation period for them?

I know my AME/AMAS is going to be the best source of information, I’d just like to hear a little from pilots that have experienced this. Also for context, this was a pretty rare and rather large sarcoma with no evidence of metastasis.

Please downvote this comment until it collapses.

Questions about this comment? Please see this wiki post before contacting the mods.

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. If you have any questions, please contact the mods of this subreddit.

[-]

AutoModerator@reddit

Hi, I'm a bot and it looks like you're asking a question about medical issues: cancer.

Medicals can be confusing and even scary, we get it. Unfortunately, the medical process is very complex with many variables. It's too complex, in fact, for any of us to be able to offer you any specific help or advice.

We strongly suggest you discuss your concerns with a qualified aviation medical examiner before you actually submit to an official examination, as a hiccup in your medical process can close doors for you in the future. Your local AME may be able to provide a consultation. Other places that may provide aeromedical advice include: AOPA, EAA, the Mayo Clinic, and Aviation Medicine Advisory Service.

For reference, here is a link to the FAA's Synopsis of Medical Standards and for more in-depth information here is a link to the FAA's Guide for Aviation Medical Examiners.

Also, feel free to browse our collection of past medical write-ups and questions in our FAQ.

Finally, we suggest you read the instructions on the medical application very closely. Do not volunteer information that isn't asked for, but also do not lie. Some people may urge you to omit pertinent information, or even outright lie, on your medical application in order to avoid added hassle and expense in obtaining a medical certificate. Know that making false statements on your medical application is a federal crime and that people have been successfully prosecuted for it. But for heaven's sake, don't tell the FAA any more than you absolutely have to.

If you're not in the United States, the above advice is still generally correct. Just substitute the FAA with your local aviation authority.

Good luck!

I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.