Aviation Medical License Revoked

My name is Chantelle Strauss. I am a 37 year old professional pilot, living in South Africa and have been flying for the past 12 years. 

In 2020, when the pandemic hit, our Airline placed us on unpaid leave for 8 months. During month 8 of unpaid leave, I was fortunate enough to find a contract flying job in Africa. I flew for the Red Cross in Africa for 6 months, and in July last year, I became very ill in Nigeria. I had to be pulled from the contract, and return to South Africa. That was the last time I flew. 

After many months of seeing specialists, it was confirmed that a viral infection (unknown) had caused permanent damage to my ear nerve. The diagnosis was Vestibulopathy (this was only diagnosed in November). 

As of September last year, I was again placed on unpaid leave due to my illness, which made it extremely difficult, as I had to undergo rehabilitation for my balance, which I could not afford. MRI's, CT scans and seeing numerous doctors quickly depleted my medical aid savings. Not only that, but I was still recovering (financially) from the previous years unpaid leave. 

It has now been 7 months without an income. My insurance declined my claim under the 'Dread Disease' benefit. Unfortunately, when I took this cover out (end 2020 when I left the Airline), they would not offer me the 'Income Protection' benefit, with the excuse being 'Covid-19'.

I still have medical bills outstanding from last year, which makes it impossible to seek any further medical treatment. 

Our Civil Aviation Authority revoked my Class 1 medical in January this year, which means I cannot fly again until such time that I have been cleared by numerous specialists. 

I have worked extremely hard to build my career up over the past 12 years, and have been very successful in doing so, but in an instant, it got taken away. Just like that. 

I do not have any alternative financial support. I have never been married and my family is unfortunately not able to support me, as much as they would like to. I have been on unpaid leave for more than a year (over the past two years). In short, it has cost me my livelihood, which is why I need to focus on getting my medical back as soon as I am able. 

I do believe everything happens for a reason, but if I cannot afford to settle my medical bills and see the specialists that the CAA require me to, then I won't be able to fly again.

Any contribution towards helping me get back into the air will be so greatly appreciated. I have exhausted all other avenues, and this is my last hope. 

I thank you for your time and consideration. 

Kind Regards, 

Chantelle.