Forum	Title	Content	Member	Sex	Country	Date/Time
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures	May 2008 Filers	Yes patience is a virtue indeed LOL!!! I'm happy that i have my work to keep me occupied or i would have gone crazy waiting...& waiting...& waiting! I just downloaded the DS3032 but it says on the top PLACE CASE BARCODE STRIP HERE BEFORE MAILING TO THE NATIONAL VISA CENTER...what is that barcode?? Where will i get it? Thank you Rajaa!!! Mmmuah!!!!	sassygirl876	Female	Philippines	2008-09-07 22:27:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures	May 2008 Filers	Thank you soooo much Raja!!!!! I will email them later. I'm sure they have issued the ds3023 and aos bill alrdy (we received our approval last week of August). Hmmm, wonder how long til i get my hardcopy. I do have to wait for the hardcopy, right, to snail mail it to them?? Or could i download one and send it to them rightaway? Thank you, thank you!!! Patience is not my strong point and it makes me go crazy when i can't control anything that goes on around me, plus we are very scared to get another RFE!!! LOL	sassygirl876	Female	Philippines	2008-09-07 21:29:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures	May 2008 Filers	Calling NVC operators, we need our IIN now!!! Huhu!!! Thanks for the tip Jackie!!! I'll call them again Monday and do what u did. An answer to my question...anyone??	sassygirl876	Female	Philippines	2008-09-06 01:14:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures	May 2008 Filers	QUOTE (Rajaa_Reda @ Sep 6 2008, 09:14 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> problem with that is i don't have one signed by him.......the ds3023 that is. And yes it is nice... on hold for an NVC operator now... fingers crossed maybe someone will give me the dang IIN number this time Raja, both of us are waiting for that DANG IIN, lol!!! The operator said we have to give them time - I hope it won't take a month for them to release it!!!	sassygirl876	Female	Philippines	2008-09-05 22:45:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures	May 2008 Filers	QUOTE (thirdsjen @ Sep 5 2008, 05:10 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> SHEEEEEESH!!! SO FRUSTRATED HERE!!!! OH YES WE DOOOOO!!!!!! IT'S GREEN. IT'S HALF A PAGE. IT'S CALLED AN NBI CLEARANCE IN THE PHILIPPINES. WHO THE HECK IS WORKING ON MY CASE?? HOW CAN THEY NOT KNOW THAT?? THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS OF FILIPINOS HAVE SENT IN PETITIONS TO NVC WITH ONLY AN NBI CLEARANCE BECAUSE IT IS THE SAME THING AS THE POLICE CLEARANCE HAD THEIR CASES COMPLETED JUST FINE.. AND NOW THIS??!!! Hi Jen!!! M sorry to hear about the NBI Clearance. Yes, some people used it & it worked. I'm actually thinking of sending both police clearance and NBI clearance. I got my police clearance last week and it looked like the NBI too. I paid Php400 - for visa application purpose (they asked if its for embassy, work, business, etc.) plus P125 for electronic something. Its white and has your picture (colored, they will get it on the spot) and thumbmark on it. Also, can i clarify re DS-3032?? My husband didnt get the copy of DS-3032 yet. Can i email NVC the Choice of Agent now and will just send them the Original DS-3032 once it gets to me???? Please help. Thanks!!!	sassygirl876	Female	Philippines	2008-09-05 22:42:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures	May 2008 Filers	Just called NVC this morning, they don't have the IIN yet.	sassygirl876	Female	Philippines	2008-09-04 05:31:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures	May 2008 Filers	QUOTE (LuLu @ Sep 2 2008, 05:11 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> QUOTE (sassygirl876 @ Sep 1 2008, 01:14 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}> Hi all!! How are you??? We got the approval from USCIS last week,Aug 25 (YIPPEEE!!) and it was forwarded to NVC. My husband Richard alrdy called NVC and got our case number. I know my questions are dumb but i'm alrdy cross-eyed from all the reading i did re NVC procedures and i just want to clarify from your end some of the steps so we wont have anymore problems again (we got an RFE the last time). Ok, here goes: 1. Once, we have the case # and IIN, we pay the I-864 (Affidavit of Support) online for $70. Right?? 2. And after a few days, the payment status will show as PAID. We will then, print out the I-864 Barcode coversheet from the site and mail the AOS Package to NVC. Question: Where will we get the AOS Package?? 3. I got a copy of the DS3032 and DS230 online (downloaded). Is it the same as the one NVC generates? If it is, can i fill it up now and send it to my husband (I'll be sending it together with the required documents for the IV Package: 2 passport size photos, signed DS-230 Part I and unsigned DS-230 Part II, photocopy of passport, certified birth cert, certified marriage contract and police certificate)?? Correct? Thanks all for the help!!! 1. You can pay online, yes. 2. The AOS package is basically the 864, 864EZ, and/or 864A as well as all necessary documents depending on your situation outlined in the instructions of the three forms (864,864EZ, 864A) 3. Do search for James Shortcuts or LotofPatience guide on VJ. Thank you sooo much Lulu!!! The guides are certainly helpful! However, i still have a few clarifications. The guide said: Step 2 – Choice of Agent Form (DS-3032) Generation & AOS Package Review Fee Invoicing 1. NVC Generates and sends a copy of the DS-3032 (Choice of Agent form) to the petitioner. 2. NVC sends the Original DS-3032 (Choice of Agent form) to the beneficiary in the foreign country. 3. NVC Invoices AOS Package Review Fee to the petitioner online at the https://ceac.state.g...ice/signon.aspx TRACK 2 - DS-3032 and DS-230 DS-3032 Emailing Important: 1. Subject line of email must contain NVC Case #, Beneficiary Full Name and Date of Birth 2. Make the Petitioner the Agent 3. For Email format, refer to Email DS-3032 form or Attachment 3 below. Question: Does it mean that i, the beneficiary, don't have to wait for the Original DS-3032? I can email NVC rightaway and will send them the Original DS-3032 once it gets to me???? As of now, i still haven't talk to the LIVE operator. It seems their always busy.	sassygirl876	Female	Philippines	2008-09-02 22:16:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures	May 2008 Filers	Hi all!! How are you??? We got the approval from USCIS last week,Aug 25 (YIPPEEE!!) and it was forwarded to NVC. My husband Richard alrdy called NVC and got our case number. I know my questions are dumb but i'm alrdy cross-eyed from all the reading i did re NVC procedures and i just want to clarify from your end some of the steps so we wont have anymore problems again (we got an RFE the last time). Ok, here goes: 1. Once, we have the case # and IIN, we pay the I-864 (Affidavit of Support) online for $70. Right?? 2. And after a few days, the payment status will show as PAID. We will then, print out the I-864 Barcode coversheet from the site and mail the AOS Package to NVC. Question: Where will we get the AOS Package?? 3. I got a copy of the DS3032 and DS230 online (downloaded). Is it the same as the one NVC generates? If it is, can i fill it up now and send it to my husband (I'll be sending it together with the required documents for the IV Package: 2 passport size photos, signed DS-230 Part I and unsigned DS-230 Part II, photocopy of passport, certified birth cert, certified marriage contract and police certificate)?? Correct? Thanks all for the help!!!	sassygirl876	Female	Philippines	2008-09-01 00:14:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Minimal Tuberculosis	Our son was allowed to enter the US without question despite having a clear positive on his skin test. In fact, no one in either agency (DOS or USCIS) said one word about it through the entire process and he now has his 2 year green card. What is even more disturbing is the fact that we wouldn't even know there was a problem if I hadn't, out of curiosity alone, questioned the results of the skin test myself (I'm the USC wife/stepmom). I just happen to work for a public health agency, so as soon as he arrived here in the US, we followed the recommendations of our public health medical director, which was to get a chest xray (clear) and then start Isoniazid daily for 9 months. That was what was recommended for his specific age and history (vaccinated as a newborn with BCG). Your treatment may be different. I think those who have suggested checking with a doctor in your area are correct. You may want to start at your local health department, if you have one. TB is of public health significance - which is why it is part of the immigration process - and they may have a system in place to help you at the lowest cost. I agree, you should begin treatment as soon as possible and continue until you are completely finished. It is my understanding that completing the recommended course of medication can result in a far lower chance of developing full-blown TB later in life. Keep any and all documentation associated with whatever action you decide to take. If you test positive at your medical exam, you can show them that you are taking appropriate action. Best wishes! Maya Just to make a comment about the positive skin test of Maya's step child. A positive skin test means that a person was exposed to TB( meaning one of the adults that the child live with has the disease ) and does not mean a treatment should be initiated unless there are signs and symptoms. Since not all children will have a positive result for chest X-ray( especially babies and toddlers) even if they have a disease, the childs presentation with a positive skint test are more more reliable. The positive result of a skin test is expected because pulmonary TB is common here and it only means that he was exposed to a person who has it and does not necessarily mean that your child has the disease. However to prevent development of the disease process, if the child is continuously expose to a household member with TB, treatment here in the Philippines for a child with exposure are Isoniazid and Rifampicin for 6 months with a repeat skin test at 3 months. Children are the ones usually infected when exposed to an adult who has TB but they(child) is not infectious. If there is an exposure and your child does not have signs and symptoms and you will not be staying in a household with positive for TB then its upon the discretion of your physician to start treatment. Treatment in the USA and Philippines will be different because it is not common there as it is here, therapy here is more aggressive. I agree with ELW about the treatment for TB. Here in the Philippines where TB is prevalent, we diagnose patients based on the signs and symptoms, Chest X-ray and skin test(matoux test). The triple therapy of anti-Kochs medication should be started immediately and we advised patient on the expected side effects of these drugs. It is not true however that the treatment can only be acquired at certain hospital where the patient has to go there every morning. That was a project of the government only for the "indigent patient" so that they will comply with treatment. The medicines should be taken continuously for 6-9 months to avoid resistance, however at 3-4 months after initiation of therapy you should follow-up with your physician to check if your responding with the treatment as will be seen by a clear chest X-ray. If Chest X-ray remains positive then an additional drug(quadruple therapy) will be given and will be continued for 9 months. Anthony Julie, just be compliant with the treatment regimen and start it immediately so that when your interview comes your chest X-ray will be clear or may it show fibrotic tissues(scar) which is a sign that you are healed.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-27 04:36:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Minimal Tuberculosis	Our son was allowed to enter the US without question despite having a clear positive on his skin test. In fact, no one in either agency (DOS or USCIS) said one word about it through the entire process and he now has his 2 year green card. What is even more disturbing is the fact that we wouldn't even know there was a problem if I hadn't, out of curiosity alone, questioned the results of the skin test myself (I'm the USC wife/stepmom). I just happen to work for a public health agency, so as soon as he arrived here in the US, we followed the recommendations of our public health medical director, which was to get a chest xray (clear) and then start Isoniazid daily for 9 months. That was what was recommended for his specific age and history (vaccinated as a newborn with BCG). Your treatment may be different. I think those who have suggested checking with a doctor in your area are correct. You may want to start at your local health department, if you have one. TB is of public health significance - which is why it is part of the immigration process - and they may have a system in place to help you at the lowest cost. I agree, you should begin treatment as soon as possible and continue until you are completely finished. It is my understanding that completing the recommended course of medication can result in a far lower chance of developing full-blown TB later in life. Keep any and all documentation associated with whatever action you decide to take. If you test positive at your medical exam, you can show them that you are taking appropriate action. Best wishes! Maya I agree with ELW about the treatment for TB. Here in the Philippines where TB is prevalent, we diagnose patients based on the signs and symptoms, Chest X-ray and skin test(matoux test). The triple therapy of anti-Kochs medication should be started immediately and we advised patient on the expected side effects of these drugs. It is not true however that the treatment can only be acquired at certain hospital where the patient has to go there every morning. That was a project of the government only for the "indigent patient" so that they will comply with treatment. The medicines should be taken continuously for 6-9 months to avoid resistance, however at 3-4 months after initiation of therapy you should follow-up with your physician to check if your responding with the treatment as will be seen by a clear chest X-ray. If Chest X-ray remains positive then an additional drug(quadruple therapy) will be given and will be continued for 9 months. Just to make a comment about the positive skin test of Maya's step child. A positive skin test means that a person was exposed to TB and does not mean a treatment should be initiated unless there are signs and symptoms. Since not all children will have a positive result for chest X-ray even if they have a disease, the childs presentation with a positive skint test are more more reliable. The positive result of a skin test should not be disturbing and is expected because as I have said pulmonary TB is common here and it only means that he was exposed to a person who has it and does not necessarily mean that your child has the disease. Having said that, there is no reason for anybody to question or prevent your step child from entering USA.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-27 04:05:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	X-rays	The important things is that the doctor already made a report or interpreted that film already and has forwarded it to the embassy. Even though the film is lost the doctors report is much important and what is needed to be seen. Only the radiologist will need these for future reference if there was finding, otherwise they wont need it.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-27 22:58:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Any Motel suggestions for my wife stay at in Manila during medical and interview?	Hi Everyone- Well its getting close to the interview. I dont know whos more nervous-Myself or Marie But anyway-I was hoping someone might be able to tell me a good place for Marie to stay at for the interview and medical exam. The total time will be about 2 weeks I think but depends on how long it will take for the Visa to be issued. She insists it doesnt have to be anything real nice, just so its clean and has cable television and a shower. Something kinda cose to embassy also-she is worried about getting caught in traffic. Thanks Ahead of time- Gary If u want the closest and you need not worry about the traffic, then i suggest Bay View Hotel which is across the Embassy. My husband and I stayed there in May and we paid around $70/day. The room is okay and clean.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-17 09:01:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	And to ABBY-> Have a safe trip!!! Helen Thanks Ate Helen! Good luck in your interview.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-03-30 13:00:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	I agree with Ate Helen. If you had an abortion better seek consult with a psychiatrist to evaluate you further prior to the medical exam. If during the medical exam you were asked about it better not lie, if not asked then dont give any other info. There are some changes in the body when one gets pregnant and from what I learned before there are pigmentation in the areolar region which is a sign of previous pregnancy. So even after delivery this change will remain and is permanent. Perhaps this change occur during the 6-8 weeks of pregnancy. Though most doctors dont check that but this is one sign to look for, so if one has this sign but without a child then a doctor can tell you had a previous pregnancy(miscarriage/abortion). DaveandFleur, I think your friend will fall on this category: Physical and Mental Disorder With associated Harmful Behavior. This category requires EVALUATION. Panel Physician will determine if the applicant have: a. a physical or mental disorder with associated harmful behavior; or b. a history of a physical or mental disorder with associated harmful behavior such that the same or a different harmful behavior is likely to occur in the future. Harmful behavior- for purposes of this examination, a dangerous action or series of actions by the alien that has resulted in injury (psychological or physical) to the alien or another person, or that has threatened the health or safety of the alien or another person, or that has resulted in property damage. In your friend's case-> abortions-> caused injury/death to t he fetus/baby. Physical Disorder - will depend on the Manual of International Classification of Diseases, Injuries, and Causes of Death evaluation of her (ICD-9 or subsequet revision). Mental Disorder - will depend on the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders evaluation of her (DSM-III-R or subsequent revision). Required evaluation is necessary (Psychiatrist). I will not elaborate on how they do evaluations. But for reporting results of the evaluation: She will be categorized as Class A or B. Better to be placed on Category B (with History and.... not likely to recur/unlikely to recur, etc...). A clearance from the Psychiatrist that condition is unlikely to recur is necessary for the Panel Physician to complete their medical exam and forward their results to USEM for the interview. Hope this info helps. Helen I had my seminar after my medical exam last February 19, so I went at PRISM without my passport. I brought 2 valid ID and photocopied it, NSO marriage certificate original and photocopy, 250 pesos, some pictures of you together with your husband/wife(what i showed them are pictures from the ipod since i dont have wallet picture), if you have photocopy of the first page of the passport better bring it as well.. While I went at the CFO yesterday, I brought the original and photocopy yellow certificate from PRISM, my passport, photocopy of the immigrant visa and photocopy of the immigrant data summary, valid ID and 400 pesos. It is better to come in the afternoon since few people go at that time, as advised by the employee there. I went there at around 2.45pm and was done by 3.20pm. They attached a green certificate on my passport and a sticker, they also gave me a handbook for Filipino overseas. You don't have to make a photo copy of the DS-156 to make 2 identical bar codes...just click 2 sets of copies when you print it Thank you for the information about the currency accepted at SLEC. I have another question with regards to CFO My fiancee is going to CFO seminar after her early medical (that is the only way...she cannot do the other way around...not much time...medical is her priority ). Will they admit her at the seminar without her passport? If so, what documents she needs to present? We understand that if we go thru this way we will need to go back there once we have her visa and passport to have CFO stamp. Thanks! Coco Puff	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-03-30 00:31:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Yeah, I agree with PW, there has been a lot of complaints with delbros lately. In our case, our visa was delivered by delbros last friday, march 23, without even receiving a text message nor an update in their website that our visa is out for delivery. We received a text message last Monday, 3 days after delbros has delivered our visa, that the visa is out for delivery....	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-03-28 11:21:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	[quote name='jazzy' post='742233' date='Feb 24 2007, 07:10 AM']Hi, That's very odd...all you need for the name change on the passport is the NSO marraige certificate....the CFO seminar IS NOT NEEDED!! However, she can take the cfo seminar at any time...then just go back and get her stamp when you recieve the visa, thats what we did. Jasmin got a brand new passport with name change, of course that was in Cebu....but definately the cfo is not required. Jazzy [quote name='StarProg' post='741878' date='Feb 23 2007, 02:50 PM'][quote name='w1n78' post='741733' date='Feb 23[/quote] [/quote] I wasnt required to attend the CFO as well when I had my name changed last July. However, maybe their policy changed since when I attended PRISM last Feb 19, I was able to know somebody who said that DFA asked her to attend the counselling before she can get a passport. I thought she has a special case and didnt asked for more info. But it seems like it that they do require it now since it happened to Starprog too.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-02-23 20:36:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Mira is APPROVED. YEAH. We were not prepared for the number of people waiting to get into the Embassy. I thought we would be there all day. I was impressed by the way they moved applicants from one section to another and I was surpised that we were finished at 11:10am. Hope Mike n Jennie and 2hearts have the same news. Post more on the interview later when we climb down off cloud9. hehehe. Congratulations! Enjoy the rest of your vacation Have a safe trip back home	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-02-20 08:13:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	March is fast approaching, I am not sure if someone has posted about the new advisory of the u.s. embassy regarding electronic device effective March 1, 2007. Before there is a counter wherein electronic devices such as PDA, laptop, MP3 and cellular phones can be left but now their policy is changed. They are not allowing anybody to enter the premise who has any of the device mentioned. So better leave your electronic gadgets as this will cause so much hassle and additional stress during your interview. U.S. Embassy News Release February 12, 2007 U.S. Embassy Visa Applicants: Cell Phones, Electronic Items No Longer Allowed in Consular Section For the safety and security of all applicants and employees, visa applicants are no longer permitted to bring cell phones or other electronic devices into the U.S. Embassy Consular Section. Effective March 1, 2007, applicants who have such devices on their person will be denied entry to the Embassy grounds. There will be no storage facility for cell phones and electronic devices at the Embassy; applicants for both non-immigrant and immigrant visas should leave their electronic equipment in a safe location off Embassy grounds during their appointments. This policy includes both cell phones and electronic items such as PDAs, laptops, and MP3 music players. This new policy will also help speed applicant processing to their interview appointments. Applicants should be aware that if they miss a visa interview appointment; they will have to reschedule through normal procedures. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate the cooperation of all non-immigrant and immigrant visa applicants. All other processes and requirements for applying for both non-immigrant and immigrant visas remain the same. Information on the application processes can be found on the U.S. Embassy’s Web site at http://philippines.usembassy.gov.[/i][/i]	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-02-18 08:52:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	terps76.... Can you tell us the name of the agency. I assume the taxes was added on top of the $500? And how do you get a first time immigrant ticket? Thats a great price! I will need a flight for April goin to LAX for my wife. Thanks and best wishes to you! Mike Yeah its a great price and I called several agencies and the price difference is around $70-150. My mother-in-law wants to buy my ticket in LA but it cost $780++, so she asked me to buy the ticket here right away. I just hope our visa will come on time The agency is Manila International Travel and Tours, its along Bay View Hotel, exact address is Ground Floor Ermita Center Building, Roxas Boulevard. Look for Ms. Joanne at tel#5211312. I just asked her about the first time immigrant rate and thats the price she gave me $500+ $107(gov't tax) + 1620pesos(phil. tax). I asked her how much the difference is with the regular fare and she says its $80-100. Your wife needs to bring her passport and the US visa but since my passport is at st lukes already I just provided them with a colored photocopy of my passport and I will fax them the immigrant visa as soon as i get it. The fee is valid from March 16-31, it was cheaper between March 1-15 but no more seat available. Just give her the tentative date of her ticket cause their prices are still lower than others. Good luck to you Edited by terps76, 15 February 2007 - 06:51 AM.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-02-15 06:47:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	I got my airline ticket today for March 19 via Philippine Airlines. The ticket cost $500 one-way POE:LA ($80-100 cheaper than the regular ticket since I got the first time immigrant ticket) plus $107 for the government tax and 1620 for the philippine tax. I searched several agencies and Im glad to find a good deal and a trusted travel agent as endorsed by our bank.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-02-15 03:48:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Congratulations PW and the rest who got their interview for april. Good luck!	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-02-15 03:42:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Oakwell, its been nice meeting your wife at the medical exam in st lukes. Good luck on your interview. good news Jazzy and congrats! Mira is going for her medical on Monday, maybe they will see each other. Good luck. I went at st lukes for my medical exam at 7.30am and was finished by 12.15pm. The long wait is at the 5th floor where physical exam is done, but its still okay though i was able to finish by lunch time. Thanks PW, jazzy, vhi and soulmate for all the info and help. The guideline made by sheriff did a lot of help too , thanks. To those who have shared their experiences, thanks too. I prepared for my medical certificate and histopath results so that everything went well. I'll be back tomorrow for the result at 9am. Good luck to those who will have their medical exam and interview.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-02-12 04:52:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	INTERVIEW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Called NVC just now...CR-1 interview for Milah Jean is March 15 at 6:30 am!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Get ready CR-1s with case completed in November!!!! Praise God!!!!!!!!!!!!! YAHOOOOOOOOOOO! we got our interview date too. March 2 at 8:30 am with October NVC completed date. PW UPDATE US, PLEASE - been waiting to say that. time to PM the fellow members to check with NVC oopsie, i meant November NVC completed date - got too excited thanks to all that helped. and thank you God! Thank God. Thanks for everybodys support! Thanks Micheal and Milajean for the quick post. Good luck to all of us! My baby's coming home....yahoo	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-02-02 10:11:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Wow, we have a doctor in the house, Dr. terps76. Can I have a pre-St. Lukes medical with you? Sure anytime you are ready	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-02-01 01:36:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Although I am a doctor, I can only share what I am thinking the way Starprog describes it. Its hard to make a concrete diagnosis without seeing the lesion myself. Since you say that she has this pimple like lesions for awhile, with recurrences and affecting most of her family then I considering acne conglobata vs. furuncle(boils). I would still suggest for you to tell your fiance to seek consult to a dermatologist who will identify the lesion and the predisposing factors causing its recurrences. Okay, well I googled and read about acne conglobata, and that didn't match at all. But I found Hidradenitis suppurativa, and it sounds pretty close. Although I'm not sure why I was able to rid myself of the boils without treatment. That is why I think it's caused by something in her environment. Anyway, I'll ask her again to see a doctor or dermatologist, after she takes care of some immigration paperwork that is urgent. Thanks for the info. Your welcome Gary. Hidradenitis suppurativa is occasionally associated with acne conglobata. Good luck! !	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-31 07:15:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Jazzy good luck in your interview on the 8th. Thanks for keeping the CR/IR peeps optimistic with regards to our interview. God bless! Edited by terps76, 31 January 2007 - 04:16 AM.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-31 04:16:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Okay, I have a question. This may be difficult for anyone to answer, but her goes. Fely is plagued by frequent boils (she call them pimples) on her back. Her entire family gets them, but they have been particularly bad for her since I visited her last May and we both had them. I believe I caught them from her (through intimate contact). Since I have returned to the US, I've stopped getting them (though my scars remain). She goes through periods when she has none, then suddenly several break out. I believe something in her environment is causing them (maybe the water?). I have been trying to get her to go see a doctor. Probably a shot of penicillan would make them go away. But the scars will remain for a long time. I am now worried, after reading about other's visits to Saint Lukes, that these scars may cause a problem for her when she goes to her medical. These boild are communicable though contact. The scars that St. Lukes watch out for are cuts that appear to be a "slices" in the following places: It is hard to make a concrete diagnosis without the physical exam(1) wrists - for sign of suicide attempt (2) arms - for sign of drug use (3) abdomen - for sign of caesarean cut and stretchmarks [especially for single ladies who claim not to have given birth] (4) "down there" - for sign of childbirth The St. Lukes doctors also routinely ask patients to show them scars left behind by chicken pox. Does Fely live near the former Clark Air Base? There was an issue there before about toxic wastes left behind by the Base. I would suggest a visit to the dermatologist to identify the cause of the boils or pimples and to prescribe medicines. I should not worry about the scars at the back Gary. They can be explained away as "galis" (translation? scabies?). Lots of Filipinos get "galis" while growing up. I know I did yaiksss!!! I agree , you need not worry about the scars since it is not self-inflicted and was not caused by any post-operative procedures. It will just be noted as part of the physical examination. "Galis" or scabies in English cant explain your condition, Filipinos mistakenly use "galis" in general to describe any skin lesion. Although I am a doctor, I can only share what I am thinking the way Starprog describes it. Its hard to make a concrete diagnosis without seeing the lesion myself. Since you say that she has this pimple like lesions for awhile, with recurrences and affecting most of her family then I considering acne conglobata vs. furuncle(boils). I would still suggest for you to tell your fiance to seek consult to a dermatologist who will identify the lesion and the predisposing factors causing its recurrences.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-31 04:07:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	[quote name='LuzyC' post='688152' date='Jan 27 2007, 08:13 PM'][quote name='jo&john' post='687320' date='Jan 27 2007, 06:14 AM'][quote name='dj_2004' post='685669'] Yes Jo ..no fun at all there ..whew im glad its over!! I drop my papers in the releasing counter at 5:am and they called my name at 2:40 for vaccination and wait another 21/2 hour before they release my paper and give my x-ray result! : My son had to do another x-ray 5x different position and taht means expose himself to the radiation .they do that to make sure what is ''suspicious abnormalities''that they saw before..and Thanks God everything is clear and they even told my son Ok your a ''very healthy boy u can go to USA '' ,W e start Robin's paper at 8 and were done at 5:30!! Im just glad its over and I thank God for that!Thanks for your prayers Jo.. Glad to see familiar faces from VJ and WOF members!They are all so nice and sweet! [/font][/quote] [/quote] oops, let me post again I am glad to know that although it took a while, your medical exam has been finally finished. I would like to share some information so that others will understand how we come up with ancillary procedures before making a diagnosis. I have been seeing several people saying "suspicious abnormalities" are seen in their chest X-rays. It is a standard procedure that once this has been seen several films should be taken in different positions to confirm that the suspicious abnormality are not the active form of PTB. A radiologist will report something suspicious if some haziness(whiteness) is seen especially in the upper lobes of the lungs. If in the additional films taken the whiteness or haziness is still visualized by the radiologist, he then can make a diagnosis based on Chest Xray as PTB. If your son had that(TB) before and has been treated, a scar in the lung may be seen. Hence additional films are again necessary but the findings will say something like "no significant chest findings" rather than a "normal chest finding" . You need not worry about radiation since most of the tertiary hospital now especially here in Manila uses a better machine unlike the older manual type which has increase scatter radiation. It is not true anymore that only 3 chest X-rays are allowed per person in a year. It is a different story if a person has a cough with a "suspicious findings" seen in chest Xray, this would require several other test like sputum exam and skin test. If it turns out that the other tests are negative, then the patient may have acquired pneumonia which can treated by antibiotics and with a repeat chest X-ray suspicious findings will no longer be seen. But of course you still have to see your doctor so they can examine you for your other presenting symptoms and consider another diagnosis. If it turns positive then triple anti-Kochs(TB) medications should be initiated immediately. Good luck as you in the rest of your journey! God bless! Edited by terps76, 27 January 2007 - 10:52 AM.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-27 10:52:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	[quote name='LuzyC' post='688152' date='Jan 27 2007, 08:13 PM'][quote name='jo&john' post='687320' date='Jan 27 2007, 06:14 AM'][quote name='dj_2004' post='685669'] Yes Jo ..no fun at all there ..whew im glad its over!! I drop my papers in the releasing counter at 5:am and they called my name at 2:40 for vaccination and wait another 21/2 hour before they release my paper and give my x-ray result! : My son had to do another x-ray 5x different position and taht means expose himself to the radiation .they do that to make sure what is ''suspicious abnormalities''that they saw before..and Thanks God everything is clear and they even told my son Ok your a ''very healthy boy u can go to USA '' ,W e start Robin's paper at 8 and were done at 5:30!! Im just glad its over and I thank God for that!Thanks for your prayers Jo.. Glad to see familiar faces from VJ and WOF members!They are all so nice and sweet! [/font][/quote] I am glad to know that although it took a while, your medical exam has been finally finished. I would like to share some information so that others will understand how we come up with ancillary procedures before making a diagnosis. I have been seeing several people saying "suspicious abnormalities" are seen in their chest X-rays. It is a standard procedure that once this has been seen several films should be taken in different positions to confirm that the suspicious abnormality are not the active form of PTB. A radiologist will report something suspicious if some haziness(whiteness) is seen especially in the upper lobes of the lungs. If in the additional films taken the whiteness or haziness is still visualized by the radiologist, he then can make a diagnosis based on Chest Xray as PTB. If your son had that(TB) before and has been treated, a scar in the lung may be seen. Hence additional films are again necessary but the findings will say something like "no significant chest findings" rather than a "normal chest finding" . You need not worry about radiation since most of the tertiary hospital now especially here in Manila uses a better machine unlike the older manual type which has increase scatter radiation. It is not true anymore that only 3 chest X-rays are allowed per person in a year. It is a different story if a person has a cough with a "suspicious findings" seen in chest Xray, this would require several other test like sputum exam and skin test. If it turns out that the other tests are negative, then the patient may have acquired pneumonia which can treated by antibiotics and with a repeat chest X-ray suspicious findings will no longer be seen. But of course you still have to see your doctor so they can examine you for your other presenting symptoms and consider another diagnosis. If it turns positive then triple anti-Kochs(TB) medications should be initiated immediately. Good luck as you in the rest of your journey! God bless!	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-27 09:55:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Helloooooooo Everyone, I hope everyone is off to a great new year. Has anyone found out the reason for no interviews the first half of March ? I was just curious. I know my baby's interview is coming soon and it will come fast. MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL!! Smiles to you all Dave Going by the timeline, those who got their case completed in November for CR/IR are hoping to be scheduled for the 1st half of March. I hope we hear something from them(NVC) soon. Good luck to all.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-26 05:22:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Congratulations BiaNcaShey! Have a happy life together. It keeps my hopes up to know that somebody from the CR/IR got approved. Hope we get our interview schedule this week. Good luck!	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-24 01:11:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Good Day Fellow VJers!! Jennie completed her medical exam 1/17-18 this week and everything looks great. During the immunization she was told that SLEC does not give the TD (Tetanus/Diphtheria) vaccine and she would have to get it when she gets to the US. I am guessing that this vaccine is necessary for AOS, correct? I asked my physician here about that vaccine and whether the vaccine can be given during pregnancy. I was told "ABSOLUTELY NOT". The only time a doctor would give that to a pregnant woman is when she cuts herself...say with a rusty nail...and there is the risk of infection. So my question is.... What if she gets pregnant right away upon entering the US and is unable to get the vaccine for AOS? Will they still approve AOS based on this? Any thoughts or experiences on this? Thank you. Michael HI Mike and Jennie! It is safe to give the TD even when she gets pregnant, it is usually given on the 3rd trimester approximately two weeks before giving birth so as to transfer the antibodies from the mother to the fetus providing protection for the baby. In fact it is advised here by obstetrician to prevent greater risk of consequences if not given as a preventive measure during pregnancy. So if she gets pregnant right away, i think you can ask your obstetrician to provide a letter to assure that the vaccine will be given on the appropriate time. Here are some links to guide u....hope this helps. http://www.cleveland...l...58&src=news http://health.discov...ccinations.html http://www.drspock.c...0,10398,00.html	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-22 07:20:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Thanks Lily, Lorna said that her text msg to my yahoo(pc) is 2.5p charged to her load. She also said that there is no charge to her load for me to text her. I don't have a cell. I just use yahoo messenger to text her. So all is good. And I found out tonight that the reason we are runnning out of load so fast was because she is CALLING her 2 brothers alot which is real expensive. Take care, Mike ---------------------------------------------------- "Hi Mike Your txt from Yahoo messenger - charge to her load - Php 2.50 Her reply to your Yahoo messenger - charge to her load - Php 2.50 Her txt to your Celphone from PI (Globe/Smart) - Php 15.00 so total of 20 txt for 300 pesos load/ 20 txt per $6.00 Lily" There is no charge upon receiving sms(text messages) from abroad to philippines. Using Smart communications yahoo messenger charges 2.5php/text, you can log thru 62580. The cheapest way to send,as my hubby w1n78 says, is Sun Cellular Companys' unlimited text messaging using msn,yahoo messenger, aol or icq which is 20php/day, 100php/wk or 300/month.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-22 06:24:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy Interview	Congratulations! Cherish everyday a beginning of life with each other. God bless. Good luck to Glen and Rose in your interview.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-17 23:34:00
US Embassy and Consulate Discussion	Manila Embassy and St. Lukes area Hotels	The five-star hotels are the expensive ones which includes Manila Diamond Hotel, New Hyatt Hotel, Pan Pacific (room, food, service and security are great are better as expected than the others) . Manila Pavilion is 4-star hotel and i like the food breakfast too. While Bay view is 3-star, it is nearest the embassy so very convinient but i dont like their room including their bathroom.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-17 08:44:00
Philippines	Manila Embassy Interview/Visa Status	I just want to say thanks again for all the help from the VJ seniors specially to PW and Sheriff. I am finally here in California with my hubby. Good luck to all the members waiting for their approval. Stay positive and keep praying. I hope the VJ members here in California will have a get together soon.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-05-11 20:50:00
Philippines	Manila Embassy Interview/Visa Status	Congrats Kim! Good luck and have a safe trip to America:) win and abby Edited by terps76, 04 May 2007 - 03:56 AM.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-05-04 03:55:00
Philippines	Manila Embassy Interview/Visa Status	If PW is not approved today , I might be forced to fly to the Phil and run naked around the USE in protest. I can see the news headlines reading, "Black man runs naked around the USE in protest of injustice!" WAAAHHHHH!!! HUHUHU!!! Sheriff, you’d better get a seat on the next plane to Manila because you’re gonna run naked in front of the USE. Just giving you a scare guys. Consul said “everything looks fine” so I guess I’m APPROVED! WOOHOOO! Thank you all for your prayers and support. My son and I arrived at the embassy at 7:15 am for the 7:30 interview. By the time I was interviewed by the consul, it was already 2:00 pm! So many people inside. We stepped out of embassy grounds at exactly 3:00 pm, arrived home at 4:45 pm. Reporting for duty now hehe. My Filipino pre-screener was super duper friendly. Feeling ko nag-bonding kami (charing!). We made chika-ola for 30 minutes. ~ imagine, my pre-screening took all of 30 minutes! Tagal no? Sabi ko na nga ba, the embassy missed me kaya they wanted me back hehe. On a serious note, please bring the pink receipt that BPI issues during your interview. The bank validation of my DS-157 lacked a “checkwriter” stamp and it caused me some delay. Good thing I brought my pink receipt so they just stapled it at the back of my DS-157. Please remind BPI to stamp the “checkwriter”. Will update more later guys. I need to wake up my hotDoug (my fiance's name is Douglas and I call him hotDoug behind his back hihi) a very happy PW Congratulations! You truly deserve it! Thanks for all your help to me and my husband Have a safe trip and happy life with your husband! win and abby	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-04-13 21:04:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures	I am still an Immigrant (green card). Is this the best visa for my fiance?	. So what visa are you in now? are you currently in the US? So your plan is to take a job as a Pharmacist to get a Working Visa... but arent your papers gonna be approved soon? I am here in Manila right now, we are on CR/IR visa. The interview is coming(hopefully) thats why I am studying at the moment to be a pharmacist since the process for the USMLE is longer than NAPLEX. So, I can take the exam for pharma either on June or Dec. Perhaps later on when we are settled already then thats the time I might pursue a career as MD.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-26 05:12:00
IR-1 / CR-1 Spouse Visa Process & Procedures	I am still an Immigrant (green card). Is this the best visa for my fiance?	Hi. I know. Thats why I am gonna urge her to take the step 3 for an H1B visa. I just want to be with her during residency Your Visa Journey is quite interesting. Hope i could ask a few questions. Is your hubby a LPR or a USC? I noticed you got your papers complete in about a year. How long a wait do you still have for an interview? [/quote] My husband is a USC. Going by the timeline for CR/IR, we are expecting our interview by march since we got our case completed in Nov. We are hoping to know the sched before January ends thats why i keep calling NVC. Good luck to both of you.	terps76	Female	Philippines	2007-01-25 01:07:00