Going to Germany

[Dale S]

It seems that I made the wrong decision for the right reasons and now I've made the right decision for the wrong reason... and I have no doubt that it's the best decision.

I gave up on my insurance and decided to have Dr. B. do my surgery in Germany. I still have the same fears and concerns but instead of thinking about myself, I'm thinking about my back. I've no doubt that Dr. R would have done an excellent job but I decided to go with the best doctor and for me, the best product. Once I changed my mind, though my fears of Germany reappeared, I stopped second guessing myself.

When first notifying Dr. B's office, they gave me December 2nd and I was very disappointed at the 3 month wait. After requesting something sooner, and the office catching up on their vacation back-log, I got a new date... October 12th. I just found out yesterday that I'd be leaving in less than 3 weeks. OK, this is doable and my mind is so occupied with getting things done that I don't have time to freak out. I had literally been waking up trembling everyday, but this morning, all I could think of was making the appropriate travel arrangements, cancelling and changing other appointments, etc. I'm sure the trembling and crying will resurface once everything is taken care of but for now, I'm too busy.

I owe this realization and change of heart to all the knowledge and compassion that I've received on this forum. To say that I couldn't have done it without all of you and Mark, is a magnitude 10 understatement. (hey, I live in L.A.) I owe you all a huge debt of gratitude that can never be repaid and I thank you one and all.

Dale

[Carmont]

Dale, I know this is a frightening time and your mind must be racing. I can suggest making a list of priorities to get ready. Get your ducks in a row and sit back, take a deep breath and know that you are making the best decision that you know how.
I don't know how Dr. B's program works once you are over there, but if it was at all like my experience in Germany, once you are over there, you won't have much time to think about anything except what is going on at the present. I had a few minutes to discuss, politics with Willie and Darla Beeson and our surgeries with Fred Corte and then before I knew it I was being wheeled in to the operating theater. Amazing it all happened so fast looking back on it, but at the time I didn't care and was ready to have the surgery done and get on with my life. As I'm sure you will be too. I can't imagine that you could be in any better hands over there!
I am really looking forward to reading all the good news from you post-op. Please keep posting too about getting ready to go. Fears, planning, difficulties, whatever. There are so many people here rooting for you and so many people with history of surgery with Dr. Bertagnoli that they will share. Right down to directions to where to get the best breakfast or lunch, or laxative at the pharmacy if you need it, I'm sure.
My best! Carmont

[Mariaa]

Dale,
It's where I would go if I could..
Good decision, good luck and keep us posted! Maria

[Backagain]

Dale we will a be pulling and praying for you. The journey isn't easy and we each have to deal with the gut wrenching fear of the unknown. We also learn during the process and understand what one of our members are going through when they tell us they made their decision and have a date. I wish you the strength to put your fears aside. Stay positive with your excellent choice in doctors and remember there is always someone nearby if you need an ear.

Todd

Congrats Dale! We exchanged email a week or two ago. As a fellow level 3 candidate (recently evaluated by Dr. B as well), I am right there with you in the fear department. I can't wait for your return with all your updates, this time "on the other side" of this hell!

Good luck Dale! You will be in great hands!

[letteski]

Dale,

I know this was a difficult decision for you but I believe you have made a great choice for your life. You have put yourself in the best of hands all the way around. The next month will be difficult but also exciting, as you get closer to your life again.

I am here for you anytime, just give me a call. I enjoyed talking with you when I was in LA and look forward to visiting in the future. When it comes to our backs we deserve the best and you will have the best with Dr B. I look forward to your posts before and after.

PS: Mark�s voice was the first thing I heard when I woke up after surgery and it was very comforting to have him there.

[Alastair]

Hi Dale,
well it's always a difficult decision to leave your own country and go somewhere else for surgery and we all have felt the doubts and fears which you have.

However knowing the reputation of Dr B you have the big assurance that you are in extremely safe hands and an extremely experienced surgeon at ADR. I send you my best wishes for a good and successful surgery and do come back and tell us how you got on. I understand one of your country ladies is out there working as a nurse or receptionist or something.
Cheers,
Alastair

[Anita]

Hello Everyone,

Just to assure patients that have chosen Dr. Bertagnoli, yes, as Alastair mentioned, there is an American on Dr. Bertagnoli's staff,.... me..!

I am the International Patient Coordinator for Dr. Bertagnoli as of September 1st this year, as my signature shows, my husband had a very successful 3 level lumbar adr in February 2005.

I was later offered this fabulous position as patient advocate and now live in Straubing, Germany.

My posts of the past months, are usually related to spousal/caregiver support, I am not here to solicit business, just lend a helping hand/ear, because after my husbands 14 year history of back pain and surgeries, we have indeed been around the block/and world together.

We as patients/caregivers can do a world of good to help one another as is evident on this board.

Warm regards,

Anita Peludat
International Patient Coordinator
Dr.Rudolf Bertagnoli
Straubing, Germany

[Alastair]

Hi Anita,
Thanks for this confirmation -- - I am putting your details in with the info of Dr B in the FAQ`s

Great to hear from you
Best
Alastair

[luvmysibe]

Dale,

It is wonderful to know that you are putting your health first rather than being tied up in the quagmire of insurance and politics. When you arrive in Germany, you will be so focused on findng your way around you probably won't have too much time to worry. Just think, it will be great to think about recovery and healing instead of daily survival. You will be in my prayers!

Take care!