I am an American who lives abroad on a remote tropical island in the South Pacific. It has always been my dream to live there; however, as I am getting older, I am finding that the challenge of living in a jungle-type of environment can be daunting when one has arthritis that causes constant pain. It causes life to come to a screeching halt.

I had to travel to mainland Fiji to see a specialist to find out what, if anything, could be done about the constant pain. When I was told I would need surgery, I began inquiring as to whether or not the surgery could be done there. The main hospital did not have the equipment to perform such surgery, and the private hospital wanted $20,000 - $25,000. I knew that I would have to borrow such a sum, but was not ready to ask for such an amount. I also knew that going to neighbouring New Zealand or Australia, as well as to my native U.S., would be an even more costly alternative. Then, a friend suggested going to India, as many are doing these days. While in mainland Fiji, I searched the internet, the only means I had of finding a doctor in India. I came up with a number of names, but my impressions kept drawing me back to one; Dr. Balasubramanian. My father in the US inquired with a few friends, among who are orthopaedic surgeons, and this decision was agreed upon.

After a long journey to India (though not as long, I am sure, as some other patients have made), I was picked up at the airport and was taken to a lovely hotel, where I spent the night. The next morning, I was taken to the hospital where I was pleasantly surprised to find an excellent facility. What further surprised me was the accommodation I had waiting for me. What I was really impressed by was the immediate attention and care I received by the excellent, capable staff of nurses and assistants.

My experience of having this operation was also a very different one. The anaesthesia did not have consequential, unpleasant side effects I had been so accustomed to in the past. Following surgery, the care of the physiotherapists was fabulous. The doctor and his colleagues were very attentive. What I really want to convey, however, is how this operation is going to give back my life. For six months prior to the operation, my life has been on complete hold. Now, though recovering, I know that already I am feeling better than previously. I will be able to take walks and do the things I previously did, and be the family member everyone remembers.

While I am a retired person, I am involved in visiting people on a frequent basis, and this operation and excellent medical care have given me the ability to return what I love to and need to do most. The pain felt previously is entirely gone, and strangely, I cannot even remember it. Thank you Dr. Bala. Also, I will be resuming my active life, taking long walks, swimming in the sea, and doing various kind of community work that entails a lot of physical activity. Even my beloved pets will have a lot of quality play time with my husband and me, which is an important part of our lives. I’ll never forget Dr. Bala.

I know of many people who are in various stages of needing either knee or hip replacement or other such remedy, and intend to refer the good Dr. with highest praise.

Gale Tanu