u/Isaac1967

Phew… y’all weren’t kidding about the mental exhaustion! And man! What’s up with those 567 true/false questions!!!

Thank you everybody for the support and advice.

Hey all,

I’ve got my CogScreen tomorrow and just wanted to post on here to get an idea of what to expect and any advice. Trying not to worry about the whole ordeal but this is a big deal to me as I’m sure it is for many others.

Thanks for everything so far!

As the title says. Looking for any first-hand reviews/experience with Dr. Brad Griffin as a HIMS AME. Reviews I’ve seen have been a mixed bag and most suggest Dr. Kramer, but unfortunately Kramer is not taking new patients w/ substance use history.

Hey all,

I recently received an initial denial from the FAA stating that for reconsideration of my denial, I will need two things; a current substance abuse psychiatric evaluation, and a neuropsychiatric evaluation with HIMS psychiatrists.

The FAA recommended me two psychiatrists in the Galveston, TX area, Dr. Edyth Harvey and Dr. Edward Zompa for the evaluations. I wanted to come back to this subreddit to see if anyone had experience with them or a better suggestion in the southwest region.

As I’m sure everyone in this sub knows, this process is nerve wracking and I’d like to go about this in the best way possible to get in the air. If it’s of any assistance, I’m located in the DFW metroplex in Texas.

Thank you.

EDIT: I am set up with an appointment for my neuropsych with Dr. Johnson and psych with Dr. Harvey. I’m glad to have this sub or I would be even more lost than I already am.

My application for a class 1 medical was recently deferred. Prior to submitting my application, I unfortunately had not looked into this subreddit or anything similar, so I wasn’t able to consult with a HIMS AME prior to my submission. It didn’t dawn on me until I filled out my application that my medical history will most likely be an issue. After going through the process with my AME, he believes it’s still a certifiable case, just a little more complicated.

I have one hospitalization at the age of 13 due to depression, the official diagnosis was MDD, recurrent, without psychosis.

Before I became aware of the different options available to pursue aviation, I graduated high school with full plans to attend a 141 school, however that got stomped out pretty fast due to a lack of finances throughout my family history. I had a whole plan, and at 17 this crushed my hopes and unfortunately led to some drug use for a solid few months. It got pretty rough, but I had no legal troubles or the likes throughout that entire process. The most damning thing for me was an inpatient hospitalization due to substance abuse, and the upholding of the previous diagnosis. This was at 18.

Following this hospitalization I attended a six-month nonprofit rehabilitation program, and I’ve been sober over 4 years now. I’ve held a steady job, never failed a legal or occupational drug test, I really have no documentation of my history other than the hospitalizations.

The FAA recently got back to me and I’ve returned the requested info consisting of a personal statement, forensic 10-panel drug test, current progress notes, medical records, etc. I mailed those out priority on Monday.

I’m really just coming to this subreddit to get some input on what I can most likely expect, if anyone happens to know. Luckily, if I should expect the full HIMS battery, I’ve secured a grant from the AFF (highly recommend, Aviation Family Fund) and I’m at a much better place financially these days. Like I said, I could just use some input on if I should begin preparing for the worst. Thanks all.

EDIT: to add, if I should expect the full battery, I could really use some advice on possible avenues for funding I could look into. Medical loans, etc. anything. Unfortunately I’ve made up my mind and I’m not ready to give up on aviation again, even if my wallet will curse me for it.

Hey guys,

I recently found this subreddit while searching through my options both in person and online. I recently got out from under a bad car loan (23.5% interest, no tangible credit at time of purchase. Car got totaled, deemed 100% the other parties fault, gap insurance, etc.)

A big part of my disappointment with my now totaled vehicle was the fact that I bought it as a young adult with no plan for the future, but years later I’m married and eventually planning on children, and a 2D coupe is not very fitting for that. For practicality and comfort, I’m now looking at financing a pickup truck, and could use some direction.

I’ve gotten an approval for financing for $20k with some flexibility with my credit union (~8.3-9.2% interest if secured) but with the criteria of 2016 or newer and no more than 75k mileage. I spent a few hours looking at an F-150 XLT today priced at $28k total after ‘adjustments’ made by the lot, trying to secure financing. Unfortunately my CU denied financing without a cosigner, and I have no one to co-sign. I was approved for the truck w/ Capital One at 17% interest, looking at $658/mo w/ gap + 2yr warranty (72mo).

I’m looking to keep my payment similar ($516/mo with a max of $550/mo) since my insurance is now unfortunately going to be around $450/mo until I turn 25 soon. I could really use some suggestions on make/model to search for at lots that might stay in the range. If it helps, I’m not picky but really like the F-150 XLT’s due to the comfortability of the seating since I’m on the larger side of men. One thing that’s non-negotiable for me is a tow package for my wife’s boat and a future camper.

Are there any good suggestions for me given my circumstances, or am I SOL for now?

Thanks.