I got my third class medical certificate yesterday

[N6843N]

I am thrilled to say the least. Being without one since 07', and dealing with medical problems on a daily basis was a drag. Now 40+ pounds lighter, I feel better and can't wait to get back in the saddle. I wouldn't be here if it was not for good caring medical personnel like my Doctor Dave Wright and most importantly my AME Doctor Gregg Pinnell. If you live in Michigan and have a need for an AME that REALLY understands the workings of the FAA medical department check out Dr Gregg at www.OK2FLY.com. I can not thank them both enough.

[skyking]

Welcome back. I cant imagine how happy you must be.

I could not live if i was not allowed to fly.

 

[FlyDave]

Mike,

Congrats on the medical!! Health issues can be one of the hardest things in life to deal with.

The most impotant thing in life is good health. The second most important things are a valid medical and a plane to fly. All else is just icing on the cake (neither structural or carb)!! (Oh yeah...well, my wife is righ tup there too!!! - God, I hope she doesn't read this board)

[piperpainter]

Awesome!!!

[MooneyMitch]

Congratulations on your success!   Glad you will be back in the cockpit soon!!

[Texan]

Congrats as well.

Just a little unsolicited medical/"medical" advise from this physician:

1)  Stay healthy (duh)

2)  Always be wary of a physician ordering a test you really don't need (e.g. cardiac stress tests "just to check things out")

3)  Should you find yourself diagnosed with a new medical condition, research the medical certificate implications before going to your AME

4)  FAA medical regs and procedures are essentially unflexible, though arguably a lot more accomodating than in years past.  This said, the majority of the "hassle" pilots face getting their medical back is not per se FAA bureacracy, but rather AME unfamiliarity with the FAA standards.  If your AME does 99% of his aeromedical work on 19 year-olds looking to get a 3rd class, this same AME is not likely up to speed on the procedure to clear you to fly after receiving cardiac stents.  The medical regs are relatively cookbook; your AME should be able to explain to you the exact medical hoops and timeframes involved in getting your license back.  If not, find another AME who can.

5)  By all means, if you 'know' that you will be turned down for a 3rd class, don't re-apply for one.  Keep your LSA options open while you work on satisfying the descrepancy under the guidance of an experienced AME.  There is essentially no hope on the radar screen to allow pilots who have a failed a 3rd class to ever obtain a LSA certificate (rather, if anything, there is more hope that the 3rd class medical would be abolished). 

I don't mean to promote the business of "pro" AMEs, but frankly, if you have a problem, you are better off seeking one out rather than having an unseasoned AME work your case with OKC.