Both Dr. Scott and Dr. Steinberg emialed me back immediately.  We decided to send Jennifer's MRA's to Dr. Steinberg. Our insurance will cover the surgery (THank God). His nurses are so nice.  They got back to me immediately. He is recommending Jennifer have surgery on both sides.  We will be flying out to California in the next few weeks and will stay 3 wks.  He will operate on the left side first, wait a week, then operate on the right side. I meant to ask why he can't operate all at once. But, I know she will be in very good hands.  I'm going to be reading all about traveling experiences on the web board, but if anyone has any advice, please let me know.  THe nurse (Teresa) said we should be able to stay in the Ronald McDonald House. If that doesn't work out, what should we do?  Has anyone ever had insurance cover airfare and hotel expenses?
Thank you for all of your support!

Michelle

Hi Michelle,

So glad to hear you are taking your little Jennifer to Dr. Steinberg. She will be in excellent hands. And the nurses and doctors and technicians are all very nice.

I do know that some MMD patients' insurance has covered the travel and hotel. That is rare these days but I would still check it out with your insurance company or benefits office.

I hope you get to stay at the Ronald McDonald house because it is nice and close to the hospital.  If not, Stanford has discounts at local hotels.  DJ has a list of the discounted hotels on the site. Also, you may get airfare covered  by contacting such places as AngelFlight etc. There is also a list of air travel assistance on the board. Be sure to get this moving quickly as they require notice. In addition to private pilots that donate their time and aircraft, there are also major airlines that will donate airfare. Again, it is important to act on this quickly due to the amount of time they require to process paperwork etc.

I hope this is helpful to you. Please keep us posted on Jennifer's status and progress.

I will keep you and Jennifer in my thoughts and prayers.

Hugs,

Lore  

Jennifer,

I have a book that lists a few organizations that donate air travel for medical purposes. The book is a few years old, but many of the resources I've called in the book are still active.  Here is what they list for travel, it's worth a try to call them:

Angel Flight: (800) 325 8908
Air Care Alliance (800) 296 1217
Air Lifeline (800) 446 1231 or (906) 376 8200
Continental Careforce (713) 438 0376 attn: Bob Jack
Corporate Angels (914) 328 1313
Lifeline Pilots (708) 524 8937
Wings of Freedom (407) 857 0727

I hope that helps!!  Good Luck!  We'll be thinking of you!!

[smiley=hug.gif], Kristen