[annapurna]

I can't answer the emotional stress of getting surgery on your own. Laura and I have always been able to be there at least support each other emotionally. Only you know what you'll want but you can use things like Skype to keep in touch and talk so you don't feel like you're alone in it.

If you plan well, getting home is easier than you'd think. Pack light. Plan on buying a few outfits from Goodwill that can be left behind in Germany. Think hard about everything you pack to decide if it needs to go to Germany and if it's something you can leave behind in Germany to drop your load on the way home. You can get help from a driver to get you back to the airport on your way home and let your airline know that you'll need help with luggage and/or a wheelchair. Don't be afraid to ship stuff home if you have to, but the postage will be expensive. Most upscale hotels will help you ship if you have to.