A Dream Put On Hold

http://www.wtvh.com/news/local/40245072.html

Dan Simmons just graduated from Onondaga Community College with 3.825 G.P.A. and a degree in Fire Protection Technology. After that, the plan was to become a member of the Syracuse Fire Department. But he suffers from Attention Deficit Disorder, and the city says he's "Medically Disqualified." His father was a firefighter, and he knew from a young age, his path would be the same. "Putting on his bunker boots, sliding down the pole in the basement, hearing all the calls he goes on, it's the most wonderful thing. I was like wow, that's not a job, that's fun," said Simmons.

He scored a 95 on the Civil Service Test, says he went through the interview with flying colors, but after the medical exam, he heard nothing, so he called the chief. "He said I have bad news. You've been medically disqualified," Simmons said. "I broke down in tears, I was absolutely devastated. I said how can this be? How can this be? Why?" Years ago, Simmons was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder. Without health insurance, he gets free samples of his medication from the doctor who diagnosed him. But a recent psychological evaluation was inconclusive. The report stated: "Specific prediction as to whether or not these propensities will actually compromise vocational adjustment cannot be validly made on the basis of methods available within this evaluation."

He's been given multiple reasons why he's medically disqualified: A.D.D., "anger issue," and no recent medical exam. He says he wants a solid written explanation from the department. Most importantly, he wants to prove to them they made a mistake.

The city was unable to comment on any personnel matters, pending litigations or health conditions of prospective employees. Simmons started an online petition in the hopes of rallying support of friends, family, even current firefighters. You read more at http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/hiredansimmons/index.html