Had Laminectomy (lumbar surgery) July 2013. Can I get into the industry?

I've been searching all over the web for information on truckers who have had lumbar surgery and how they fared in the industry, with their companies, after their surgery. Since my surgery last July, as it was an absolute wake-up call. I have quit smoking and I continue to exercise and keep fit! I'm 48 and very healthy and it was my older brother who just retired from over 40 years OTR who recommended I get away from the desk job, sitting at a desk for 8-10 hours a day and get to driving. My concern is my prior back surgery. I can do all of the physical requirements not only required by DOT, but those required from individual companies, without any problem at all. I just need to know if having a prior back surgery is a stigma??? I'm in better shape then many of the truckers I interviewed at various truck stops doing my research as to if I wanted to get into this career A profession I will stay with until I retire. I am not looking at this as a job, I'm looking at this as a career. Not only am I fit, but at 48, I have no children and very few family members. I more of a loner even at home so I know I can cope with being on the road for long periods of time. (I was away 3 weeks at a time in my prior professions and actually enjoyed the time away, saving on home electric, car gas from no driving, etc.) Any input on my request would be GREATLY appreciated from those of you that have been through a back surgery from a herniated disc or know of drivers who have had been through it. Again, thank you all very much in advance!

 

Thank you for the info. I've ridden with my brother a few times over the years, once out 6 weeks and he didn't have air ride seating! It was riding with him in his skateboard in the past and helping him out that made me decide that if I were to ever make a career change, this is what I wanted to move into. He gave me his input but was the one to told me to go to the forums and check with the drivers themselves. He hasn't personally had a problem, but knew some who did, but still told me to hear it from others like you. I know that it comes with the territory and I just wanted to check with some drivers that have been through it before I fork out the money out of pocket for class. I will do my part, as I never really 'watched out for my back' before the surgery. Now, I will continue to move and lift correctly and keep myself in shape, just wanted to make sure that so long as I give my 125%, I wouldn't be denied, denied, denied no matter how hard I work for it. Thank you again for your reply.