Thanks to all of you who replied and/or sent emails to me wishing me luck and offering advice.
I received an email tonight from Mark *******, founder of Global Patient Network and a Charite recipient. He is concerned that I will be the 'first' Charite surgery for my surgeon. I plan to call Mark this weekend to discuss this with him. He commented that most problems arise from 'learning' curves. Has anyone out there been the first patient for a Doctor? I believe Laura was in a study group and was. As my surgeon and I discussed via phone today, we are in new territory and he will have a Charite rep and another surgeon with him during the procedure. I suppose it comes down to a leap of faith, but I am taking Mark's email seriously and appreciate his comments. I would much prefer to travel for an experienced Doctor but expense and insurance would not cover out of network care. Best to all!