So, sorry if this is a repeat question but I keep looking & haven't found it yet....

I've made the decision to go to Mexico for surgery (90% sure) - not sure with whom, but that's for another time.

Has anyone gone alone? I realize that it's always better to have someone with you but I just don't have anyone that I can take. I have two young kids and no other family really and my husband needs to stay behind with them. I guess I want to hear from other people who were by themselves:

- Was it okay alone?

- What do I need to take? I'm wondering about luggage bc I will have to lift it when I fly home. If I pack bare minimum, it won't be heavy, but then what if I need stuff. Any ideas?

- What about my personal belongings? My cell phone and my cash? Who watches them when I'm passed out?

- What about going to the store alone? Or walking around in Mexico alone?

Thanks in advance for your help as I try to plan all this.

I went alone but to NC not mexico. I needed very little stuff as they have the system down pat. I expect the mexico sites are even more prepared. It was a little challenging doing things for myself but it was doable and I was not one of the lucky ones that had it easy-- lots of gas pain, etc.

from what I read I dont think you will have much opportunity to walk in mexico, outside the hospital.

You went to Dr. Heider! I was thinking about going to him - and honestly the one thing that made me thrown off was that I'd need to be alone. Is it ok if I message you to ask you more about going to him? He was one of my final picks for a doctor...

Yes, I am traveling to Mexico alone. I fly out tomorrow. At the time I set this up I was determined to go on my own but as I get closer to take off I wish I could bring some body along.

I went to Mexico myself. I chose Dr. Alvarez, in Piedras Negras. His Coordinator, Susan hooked me up with my "Sleeve Sisters", Nancy (from CA), and Linda (from KY) a few weeks before my surgery. It gave us enough time to get to know each other via email and phone calls. We each traveled alone and were scheduled for surgery the same day. We had gotten to know each other, so when we arrived at the Hotel, it was like meeting "new" old friends. We still stay in touch regularly, and have a weekly "3 way phone call meet-up" every Thursday evening.

Pack light. Arrange for the airline to have a wheelchair escort take you to the gate. They will help you board and put your carry-on luggage in the overhead bin. Ask for a pre-boarding pass and sit in the bulkhead if you can. (the first seat). That will give you room to stretch your legs and exercise them during your flight. (helps to avoid blood clots).

Don't take jewelry. I wore my watch and earrings only. I brought my I-phone, one credit card, and $50 cash. I only spent about $15, for a bowl of Soup, a few bottles of Water and tipped the driver. Wear something comfortable to fly home in. Sandals or flip flops so you're not messing with tying laces, etc. Something to sleep in at the hotel and a few toiletries. Don't worry about a hairdryer, shampoo, etc (the hotels provide it). Bring a toothbrush, toothpaste and a hairbrush. Get some gas-ex strips and a chap stick. You probably won't feel like putting on make-up, so don't bother packing it. Bring a hoodie or light jacket in case you get cold on the plane. I had a private room and never worried about my belongings.

Hook up with your "sleeve sister (s)", and you'll never be alone. We walked together, had dinner (egg drop soup) the night before surgery together, and were always in each other's rooms once we were awake and walking around (the night of surgery). It was a great experience. I'm glad I didn't bring a friend or family member.... they wouldn't have been able to relate to the experience as my "sleeve sisters" did.

im going alone and my surgery is 10\10\13 im flying from dallas..

m hoping to find some sleeve sisters going..\no luck so far

m hoping to find some sleeve sisters going..\no luck so far

I know what you mean. I am not having any luck so far either.

hopefully u will find some sleeve sisters when u go.. good luck sending prayers ur way

hopefully u will find some sleeve sisters when u go.. good luck sending prayers ur way

I'm going to TJ alone next Sunday, staying at the Marriott , anyone else? I will be there a week as having dental work also...

I am going to Dr Alvarez in MX on 9/20 by myself. One of my friends offered to go with me but I didn't want her to be bored, I figure the first day I will be sleeping mostly & walking. I look forward to the alone time.

I am going to Mexic with Dr. Alverez on 09.27. Not sure if I'm going alone yet.

AmyinOrlando, thanks for your post! How do I arrange for wheelchair service at the airport? Also, how was Dr. Alvarez?

AmyinOrlando, thanks for your post! How do I arrange for wheelchair service at the airport? Also, how was Dr. Alvarez?

I would like to know this also.

u just call the airline and request it.. i just did it with southwest

I'm going alone too. Also having no luck with finding a sleeve buddy. My date is 10/5 for Tijuana Dr Illan.