A New Hurdle

I hit a new hurdle this week. I was kind of expecting it, but it’s that kind of thing that still surprises you when it hits. Yesterday, I received a message that Peace Corps is not able to medically clear me at this time. The message continued by saying that I will receive a medical non-clearance letter with a more detailed explanation within two weeks. The letter will also tell me how I can appeal the decision, which I fully intend to do.

I’ve known all along that medical clearance would be my biggest challenge. I have some health issues and although they are very well managed, my health does not fit in neat little boxes. Peace Corps makes it very clear that medical clearance is not about what I, or my providers, think I can do, it’s about Peace Corps knowing they can meet their perception of my medical needs.

I’m disappointed and frustrated. I know this is often part of the process; many people appeal and eventually get approved, but I would rather not have to do it. I know I can handle living in Uganda. My doctor has no concerns. And, I’m frustrated because I want to get started on the appeal right away, but without the official letter, I don’t know exactly what to address. At the same time, time is of the essence. Argh!

In the meantime, my brain spins… what info can I give them? What do I do with myself if they don’t clear me? So, right now I’m focused on distracting myself. Yesterday involved binge watching Hulu, fudge, the couch, some needle felting, and games on the iPad while it rained outside. Today I have some commitments, generally enjoyable ones, and I had already planned to spend this coming weekend visiting friends.

So, I wait again…

Photo

This post’s photo is of the needle-felted doll I just finished. She’s my first one and I took the fabulous advice to let your first one (and second…) be what they are going to be, and not try to make something specific. Right now, I’m learning techniques and using supplies I have on hand. Given where she posed for the picture, her name might be Viola.

6 responses to “A New Hurdle”

Marcia Shaw

May 19, 2022 at 12:40 pm

One of my favorite lines these days: “I’ve been tested for patience; I’m negative!” I had been vaguely wondering what the PC would do to be okay with your medical stuff…now we know, “pause”. It’s frustrating, but you are good at work arounds and plans B, C or D! Let’s hope the PC will work with you. In the meantime…wait, wait, wait.

Me: I am in a different wait state…packing to move back to Portland. I feel like Benny Beaver: pack, pack, pack, pitch it out, pack, pack, take to thrift store, pack, pack, pack, give it away, pack, pack, find a friend with kids, pack, pack, etc. I have way too much crap! (But we knew that ;-).

I’ve just had eyelid surgery… –so I look like I’ve been hit by a train (the black stitches don’t help), but actually very little pain…irritation, dull ache, generally tired, but not really painful. So, I’ve been listening to books on tape, doing little else. At least now I should eventually be able to read at night ;-). This getting old stuff is not for sissies.

I’ve been enjoying your photographs…not to mention the writing. Thanks for sharing! Patience is a virtue (but not mine). Marcia

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1. Karin
  
  May 19, 2022 at 12:49 pm
  
  Thanks Marcia! I think I was not there the day they passed out patience… or maybe I just didn’t wait long enough! Good luck with the moving – yes… pack, toss, pack, ditch, pack, off to the thrift store…
  
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robynlynnwriter

May 19, 2022 at 1:11 pm

Oh, Karin, how frustrating. As a person with medical issues, I hate it when an outside establishment determines what is or isn’t problematic. Good luck~

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Sharon Rainsberry

May 19, 2022 at 1:36 pm

Karin, Hang in there. PC-WA (as in DC) does not make sense. I was medically terminated from my post for short-term anemia associated with a parasite. It was not uncommon among volunteers in-country. Out of country PC-WA had a different take on it. I was fully recovered in a few days and had been hiking at high elevations in Sierra’s by the time I was terminated. Go figure. I say go get ’em, you got this.

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Heidi Oksendahl-Byers

May 19, 2022 at 1:39 pm

Sorry to hear about the new hurdle! I believe in you! Good luck with the appeal!

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Eliora Jablow

May 20, 2022 at 1:50 am

Hi Karin. So sorry you’ve hit a bump in the road. You’ve got this.
Ellen

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