I'm back in the US now!

While I was in Brazil, I did several "drive-by" postings about my trip, but didn't have time or energy to check in on everyone else. Now that I'm back in the US, I can get back to regular posting, and talking with everyone. If you'd like to read about my surgery and experiences in Brazil, I have linked to the posts in my profile. Oh and .......21lbs gone as of yesterday. Woohoo!

Can I ask you how much your surgery cost in Brazil. My daughter needs this surgery and she will have to be self pay. Was it alot less. and also how was you experience overseas. Thank you barb

Hospital was $5k (I wired it - can be paid by credit card if need to stretch payments out) for everything - use of the OR, a private room, all nursing care, my medications, food, my leak test, and up to 2 weeks stay in the hospital. Surgeon & all his staff was $4k. Must be paid in cash. Private nurse (not optional) was $300. The hotel for 18 days was just under $1k. Travel papers were $200. Plane tickets were $2k (for two people). For everything else - food, taxis, shopping, shopping, shopping, shopping...and more shopping. I spent about $1k. I paid for almost everything, since the only reason my companion was along was to help me. If you'll click on my profile, I've linked to several posts about my experiences in Brazil, with surgery, with food, and with the people in general. Overall it was fantastic and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Bring a dictionary though - you'll need it. --BT

Welcome home and congrats on your 21 lb loss. You are doing great. . ~hugs~ Vickie

WOW< So funny, I was just looking for your email address to see how you were doing but today is my first day back to work. Good to hear from you and that you are doing so well. j