I was hit with a diagnosis of Keratoconus, a condition which requires me to wear glasses, and might occasionally necessitate an eye test every now and then. Yet this does not hinder my abilities, not my desire to serve my country proudly in the British Army. Despite the common assumption that medication is required for all keratoconus cases and thus prevents overseas deployment, I personally don't need anything beyond my glasses, which is acceptable when joining the forces. 

The standard response I received was that "you will have limited access to medication if deployed  hence are deemed unfit" is not always applicable to every potential recruit with Keratoconus. For instance, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, 57% of keratoconus cases stabilise after 10 years and no longer necessitate medical intervention besides corrective eyewear (American Academy of Ophthalmology, 2018). This information leads to the pressing question: why are stable Keratoconus patients barred from joining the ranks of the British Army?

We are aspiring soldiers who wish to serve, yet are barred due to a misunderstanding about our condition. Therefore, we urge the British Army to reconsider its stance on stable keratoconus patients, taking into account not just the stereotypical cases, but those like me, who are capable and willing to serve, unhindered by our condition. Please sign this petition to make this critical change possible.

Many thanks,

Mark