Posted by Chad Busenitz on February 20, 2004 at 14:54:52:
In Reply to: 24 yo in the Army, Diagnosed with Legg Perthes, AVN posted by David E. Hines on February 02, 2004 at 10:24:55:
: I am a 24 y/o SPC in the US Army. I was diagnosed in Iraq, after a running injury. I'm trying to find someone that was a late diagnosis like me. I'm trying to find out if I should remain a Soldier, or call it a day. Someone please contact me.
: Thanks,
: SPC David E. Hines
Hey David,
My name is Chad Busenitz and I was diagnosed as a freshman in high school after I had a knee injury. I was denied entrance into the Navy out of high school because of the perthes disease. The meps doctor told me the best thing is non-impact. It crushed my dream of being a U.S. soldier. Although I am almost 23 years old I am trying to get into the Marines. I know the decisions you are waying are tough. Believe me! I know that joining the Marines could destroy my already damaged hip but I want also to serve my country. The disease sucks! Especially for those of us who are athletic and hate being told the best thing for us is to not do much at all. I know the doctors are looking out for our best interests and they probably know more about long term effects. It is simple. The more stress,the less hip. The ultimate is hip replacement. And they generally don't last more than 10 years at best. If you are looking to be a lifetime soldier change your MOS to something that would keep you from putting soo much stress on the joint. There are so many ways to progress and deprogress the impact on the joint but the real picture is the big one; the longterm! I hope to at least serve my country at least for 4 years of my life but it may never happen! I will have to deal with it. Your body will not last forever. Count the costs and I hope you will make the best decision possible. God be with you!
Chad