Travel and packing tips:

Though it is our intention to offer as many possible suggestions and helpful tips as we can, travel arrangements are the responsibility of the patient and their family. We will help anyway we can, but because of the wide variety of ways to travel, and each family's needs being unique, we cannot manage your travel plans for you.

For helpful links regarding translation, airlines, etc please see the  

TRANSPORTATION:  Remember to make all your shuttle arrangements early and in advance.  See the shuttle page for details.

PROPER ID - a passport is not required until June 2009, but you do need to take two forms of identification or proof of citizenship; the recommended forms are birth certificate (original not photocopy) and driver's license.  Be prepared to show your identity to return to the US.

MEALS:  DO NOT EAT OR DRINK ANYTHING for at least 10 hours prior to your surgery! If you have done so, please let Dr. Levi or Dr. Perez know before your surgery. This could be a life or death issue, so please adhere to it.  You may have 1/2 cup black coffee during the day, if you cannot stand going that long without eating/drinking.  If you have medical issues, please let the doctor know, so he can assist you with your eating plan.

PAIN - comfort items to consider (not mandatory):

• a small pillow to hold against your incision

• loose clothing to wear home

• icepacks (the kind you can pack and activate chemically, can be found in most pharmacies and Walmart)

• extra pain meds in case you need them (Tylenol PM etc) ASK THE DOCTOR BEFORE TAKING ANY OUTSIDE MEDS!!

• loose fitting/slip on shoes - your feet may swell and you will not be able to bend and tie shoes right after surgery.

AIR TRAVEL:  Request a wheelchair at the airport!  Some airports are huge, and they will be happy to provide assistance from gate to gate. They will also allow you to board early and stay seated if others must exit the plane (other amenities may also be available to assist you with comfort). When you purchase your ticket you should let them know at that time that you will be post op and require assistance on your return flight.

CAR TRAVEL:  It is imperative that you read the driving instructions located on the 'location' page for details about taking your own car.  You must stop and stretch your legs every couple of hours going home, and break your long trip down into a few hours per day of driving.

TAXES -  Keep your receipts. Mileage, travel expenses, and possibly medical bills MAY possibly be written off as a tax deduction if you itemize medical bills. (please check with your tax preparer for more details).

Bedding:  Blankets and pillows ARE provided for your guest (just ask if you don't receive them). Most rooms are equipped with a sleeping couch.  There is room for 1 guest to sleep comfortably in your room.

Toiletries: Bring your own toiletries (shampoo, razor, toothbrushes, toothpaste, etc). You will need to shower and get fresh bandages before they release you.  Towels are provided but if you prefer bath rags and hand towels you will need to bring your own.

Medications:  If you are on prescription medications, bring them with you.  They must be in original prescription bottle with your name on it.

Food - The hospital will provide food for the patient and her husband (or 1 guest). You may want to bring snack foods for travel and your room.  All water provided to the patient and guest is bottled water - no need to bring your own.  There are places in town to eat, and someone on our staff will assist you with directions or help.  Vending machines are available but you must get the doctor's permission before the patient can eat or drink anything.  Bring change for the machines. Language barriers may make eating out difficult for some, though many have found it an enjoyable adventure.

Entertainment - Most rooms come with a tv/vcr combo. You may want to take a video or two with you for your guest to watch while you sleep. They do have cable and a few English channels;  most are in Spanish. Any other materials needed for your guest to pass the time will need to be brought with you (magazines, books, cards etc). You should purchase these in advance, there is no gift shop at the hospital.

Remembrances - bring your camera, and take plenty of pictures! Camcorders are also welcome, even in surgery. If you do not have your spouse with you in the OR, one of the nurses MAY be able to take pics for you. (this is not always the case but usually it can be arranged.)

Souvenirs can be purchased in town or one of the other small towns nearby before or after your surgery. You can drive yourself, or you can ask our shuttle driver to take you.  There are fees for extra shuttling. 

Sightseeing/vacationing:  Talk to Marcos when you make your shuttle arrangements about places to visit in or near Rio Bravo.   On the US side of the border, South Padre Island is a wonderful place to visit.  See the links/sitemap page for more info on South Padre Island and many other travel related tips.      

If you have any questions, please email!!  Thank you!