I thought being a Marine was difficult, but finding out your child has a heart defect is even harder. It’s challenging to know you have to make several trips to see the pulmonologist and the cardiologist for your infant’s condition.
A good number of Marines are unaware of the benefits the military has to offer when dealing with family situations such as this. I can honestly say that I was one of those Marines who turned a deaf ear to the programs offered. When military benefits are presented, some military members ignore what’s being said if it doesn’t directly relate to them or their family. The Exceptional Family Member Program is one such benefit.
The EFMP identifies families with exceptional needs and maximizes the provisions of services offered to them. This program assists military families who have a child or dependent who requires particular medical or emotional services for physical, mental or intellectual disabilities. Examples of exceptional family member conditions are allergies, asthma, autism, attention deficit disorder, cerebral palsy, dyslexia, depression, diabetes, and lupus.
After researching the program I knew it was best to enroll my daughter. The EFMP staff was so genuine and they truly cared about me and the well being of my child. I completed the required DD Form 2792 to enroll in the program and once accepted, I only need to update membership for the EFM every two years according to Marine Corps Order 1754.A. The EFMP staff assigned me a case manager who tracks my daughter’s health and well being for as long as I’m at this duty station. If my daughter experiences a change in her condition, whether it is for the better or worse, I just need to inform my case manager. When I am ready to change duty stations, I will have a monitor who will help me so my move isn’t a burden on me or my family. It’s reassuring to know my daughter will have all the necessary health care when we arrive at the next base or station.
There are additional benefits the program offers as well, like respite care, family support groups and family training. The support groups help parents connect with one another to share our personal experiences with those who may be facing similar challenges. With the respite care program, enrolled families can take advantage of 40 hours of free childcare a month to catch a movie or run errands. It’s a good feeling to know I can leave my children with someone I trust to take care of them while I tend to personal and family related needs.
I am so appreciative for the programs offered through Marine and Family Services because they are truly beneficial. If it wasn’t for this program helping our military families, I’m not certain where I would be.
For more information on the Exceptional Family Member Program or to determine if you, your child or dependents are eligible, contact your local Marine and Family Services branch.