I think I'm all set :)

Making the decision as to which doc to pick was pretty tough. Since my insurance doesn't cover the sleeve, going to Mexico is my only option. Once I began to investigate, two doctors seemed to be the fore runners, Dr Ramos Kelly and Dr Aceves. At first, Dr Kelly was the way I planned to go. My daughter was completely sold on his credentials, as was I. I have no doubt he is a wonderful physician. I contacted Trish and began the process. That's when the doubts began to creep in. The pre op form she emailed me had another person's info on it. I found this off, especially since I am a nurse and HIPPA is so well ingrained in my brain. I understand this is Mexico and no such thing exist, so I erased the info and filled in my own, respecting her privacy as much as possible. It ask for my flight information, so I booked them so I could include the info. Next she sent me the confirmation letter with instructions on wire transferring the deposit. This letter address to a different person, dated 2009, and quoted a price of $9850! Quite a shock since I was told $5560. I emailed her, explaining the mix up, and she said "oops" and SENT THE EXACT SAME FORM AGAIN!!! This time I call her. She said yes, the price was still $5560, go ahead and wire the deposit of $1500, and the balance had to paid by cashier's check on arrival. I reminded her we had discussed that I was using my flexible spending card for $5000. She then informs me that they aren't able to take credit cards at this time, since there have been people disputing the charges. Well, I wish I had an extra $5000 sitting around collecting dust, but unfortunately I don't! If I can't use my flex spending (or at least a credit card), then I can't have this surgery! So then she tell me to go ahead and wire the deposit, she's sure they will be able to take credit cards by the time I get there.

This entire process is requiring an enormous leap of faith for me. First I'm having surgery to cut out part of my stomach. Next, I'm going to a foreign country and being operated on by a man I have never met! Wiring money for a deposit, hoping I will be able to use my card after I have flown all the way to Mexico is more faith than I have.

Nina at Dr Aceves' office has been wonderful! I have always gotten everything I asked for, she is excellent at her job. I can't wait to meet her and all the rest of the staff Sept 14th!