Mindy ~
Granted, AN surgery is expensive and unless you live in or near California, travel and lodging expenses at HEI can add up.
Obviously, each AN patient is in a different financial situation. Some can draw on savings and other sources of funding while some have to make financial sacrifices. Some of us are retired or non-working spouses so 'time off' is not an issue. In any case, although the financial stresses can be a bit daunting, this is your health we're discussing, not some vacation to an exotic locale. Perhaps your HEI trip & surgery will preclude actual vacations for awhile, or you'll have to put off some planned major purchase (such as a new or better car). I've read of AN patients that obtained a second mortgage to pay for their HEI expenses because it was that important to them. Of course, how you and your family handle this is your business but although your concerns are valid, the 800 pound gorilla in the room is the unrelenting reality that this is serious surgery and you want (and deserve) the best doctors and facility you can find. If, for you, that is HEI, so be it. I know, like others, you'll find a way to handle the financial burden.
As for post-op time off, again, that is up to you. If you are unable to perform your usual job-related responsibilities, you may need to be re-assigned, cut back to part-time or simply 'bit the bullet' and take the time you need to recover under 'medical leave' provisions (no pay but your job is protected). Of course, we hope your surgery is successful, your recovey is swift and time off from work won't be a serious issue for you or your husband.
Jim
