Re: Calling all military wives - question about EMF program

January 8, 2009

Hi ,

We are EFMP. We signed our daughter up about 6 yrs ago, when she was first

diagnosed. It really is a good thing, becuase they won't let you move, where

there is not a doctor (and physical therapist, if needed). One thing I hate

about it is.....we can never live over seas because of it...but that is a small

price to pay, for her to get the medical help she needs. There are different

categories, and we are a category 4 (out of 5). On the plus side of

things....you can use it towards your advantage! With EFMP, you get moved to

the top of the list, with housing....so your wait isn't long. Plus, we had our

doctor put in the comments of our paperwork, that we required an extra bedroom,

to hold her exericse equipment. That way she is able to do her physical

therapy at home (when needed). We have a treadmill, stair stepper and

stuff....that she used to use, when her arthitis was really bad. Now, it is

under control, and she

don't use it (at the moment).

I think in the end, it is a good thing, and you should sign your child up for

it. You would hate to move somewhere where they don't have proper medical care

for your son.

Helen

________________________________

From: crvanessen <crvanessen@...>

Sent: Wednesday, January 7, 2009 9:11:40 PM

Subject: Calling all military wives - question about EMF program

I'm calling on the collective wisdom of all you military spouses out

there. I was wondering if you placed any of your kids in the EMF

(exceptional family member) program. I seem to remember someone

mentioning it in a post some time back. Just curious. We live in DC

currently and had orders to move here before Will was finally

diagnosed just days before our move. My husband got orders here with

only a few weeks notice, and much to our surprise, but it must have

been divine intervention because care was available for Will here and

not at the location we were living in. I never had to contemplate a

move before and worry about doctors and if we could get the proper

care for our kids. Our rotation date isn't approaching yet ... but,

I still want to be prepared for the future which always comes WAY to

quick. Anyway ... guess my question is what is your experience?

Will was doing well for a few months and now is experiencing some set

backs. They are minor in comparison with what others have to endure

but it still means specialized medications and care. With that in my

mind, I am really concerned about picking up and moving but I really

don't know anything about EMF. Insights?

Thanks,

January 8, 2009

Hi ,

I was a Hospital Corpsman in the Navy for 20 years. was 3 when I retired

- less than a year before he was diagnosed - so I didn't personally need the

program. While I was a corpsman I did assist with screening personnel for

transfer and overseas screening, etc. The EFM program is a very good program. It

ensures that the needs for the family member with specialized medical or

educational needs can be met when transfering the family.? Not only does it

protect the family, but it also protects the military commands from the added

cost of having to move personnel early when they weren't aware of the potential

need for specialized medical care where it isn't available - and having to

separate families or having a key position vacant.

Val

Rob's Mom (11,systemic)

Calling all military wives - question about EMF program