Awhile ago I saw a link for a place in Florida that helped folks get to and from the hospital, as well as a place to rest with other trans* folks. I lost the link. I'm trying toget an idea of exactly how much it'll cost me to get this top surgery done out of pocket, and really wanted to make use of their service.

If anyone knows what the place is called, the general cost, or just wants to share their experiences with it, I'd really appreciate the info.

Thanks- Shane

Are you referring to: http://newbeginningsretreat.com/  ?

i stayed at NBR just this past August when I had mine done, and it was a great decision and (IMO) worth the price tag.  Just being about to be with only other Ft* folks and their supporters during that time was wonderful.  You could walk into the kitchen and hear a discussion on gender theory that I would only have been able to have had in one of my college courses.    It was also so helpful to have people at different stages of the process all together, because we could learn from those who were a few days ahead of us and then turn around and pass the help on a few days later!  So if you've got the money for it, do it!  And be sure to play lots with the dogs (Molly and Gidget) when you get there before you turn into a "T-rex!" 

Hi, guys.  First post here.  I am getting my surgery done with Garramone on 10/10/13.  I am scheduled to stay at NBR.  I met Leland and Bonnie when I was down there for consult with Garramone and they seemed really great.  It is a great deal.  We are paying $150/night and have use of the kitchen.  They drive you to everywhere you need to go (including the grocery store, all appointments, pharmacy, etc).  This is a huge savings in comparison to a hotel.  Every bedroom has a recliner too, which I suspect is preferred than a bed to some people when recovering.

Update:

So, I have been at New Beginnings Retreat since 10/8 and it really is a very good option.  I found I had absolutely NO anxiety about getting to the surgi center or even the surgery itself.  They make it easy for you.  All you have to do is "show up".  I wouldn't say that they "think for you", but you don't have to absorb the stress of all the details of traveling, finding a grocery store, a pharmacy, etc.  Staying here makes it all much easier.  It was also neat to meet guys here who just had the surgery done. 

It's a good place.  I would do it again.

Quote from: Brett on October 12, 2013, 07:49:03 PM
Update:

So, I have been at New Beginnings Retreat since 10/8 and it really is a very good option.  I found I had absolutely NO anxiety about getting to the surgi center or even the surgery itself.  They make it easy for you.  All you have to do is "show up".  I wouldn't say that they "think for you", but you don't have to absorb the stress of all the details of traveling, finding a grocery store, a pharmacy, etc.  Staying here makes it all much easier.  It was also neat to meet guys here who just had the surgery done. 

It's a good place.  I would do it again.

I'm glad you enjoyed it!  NBR is the place I have chosen to stay at when I get top surgery.  I plan on staying for two weeks.  I'm so glad I found their website because before that, I was stressing out over where to find a private nurse to hire etc.

Malachite,
Yes, it is a good place to stay, but keep in mind that they do not do anything physically for you (you mentioned you considered getting a private nurse).  Certainly if you need things carried and the like they will help. That said, it is still a great place for a person who comes by themselves because it is not like they are going to leave you hanging out there if you need some help with getting your shirt on, or whatever!  Honestly, though, I think you will find that you don't need much in the way of "hands on", help.  The surgery really isn't that bad.

The benefits that I see of NBR:
1) Drive you wherever you need to go
2) You won't feel "alone", like one would if they were by themselves in a hotel room
3) If there is something happening with your healing chest that concerns you, the host (who has 30+ years nursing experience), can put your mind at ease and let you know if it is "normal" or not.
4) Huge savings on food because you can cook for yourself.  There is always the option for ordering in food, as well.

The recovery wasn't as bad as I thought.  My partner is here with me, but really with the above support, things should be smooth for you, even if you have no one with you.  You can make sure everything is in place before surgery, such as how your room is set up.  They have dressers that are low to the ground, for example, so you don't have to lift your arms.  It is small things like that which makes it a good place to stay.

Most people come two days before surgery, and leave either the same day as their post op appointment (6-7 days after surgery), or leave the day after that.  My post op appt. is this Wednesday and NBR is driving us right to the airport after my appointment.  You might get a little bored if you are here for two weeks.

I'm going alone and staying there. I'll post about my experience when I get back (surgery on Oct 29). I have heard that even then it is hard to go by yourself. But you would probably be better off than hiring a nurse. YOu don't know who you would be hiring and it is going to be a stranger.

Looking forward to those discussions! I love being with trans guys and am very active in the community here.

You can probably spend less but not with going by yourself, I don't think. Private duty nurses aren't particularly cheap for you. You usually go thru an agency, so  a lot of your money is going to an agency. The $139/night that I am paying is tax free. A motel isn't tax free. So you can figure your funds out more easily.


--Jay

Quote from: aleon515 on October 20, 2013, 07:04:23 PM
Just emailed them as I haven't heard anything at all, but did notice that the webpage and FB are all down. So something is clearly up. Yikes. I am coming by myself so hope they contact me soon, as I can come by myself.

--Jay

Yikes for me too.  I couldn't find their website or FB either.  I hope they stay in buisness.  I'm depending on them!