Hi there!!!
My DD had surgery with Dr. Rink when she was 11 months old. I had done a LOT of reasearch on Doctors. He was so booked at the time that I had to wait 6 months for a surgery date. Well worth the wait.
My insurance was awesome because I am in Missouri. The insurance considered him to be in the travel network. They approved the surgery within a day. Definently call CARES and they can help you with sample letters and other insurance related stuff.
What I would do is get a special binder. Put all surgery stuff in there. Write down names of folks you talk to. Write down any and all questions you have. Also to help with questions I watched the DVD that CARES sent me. (it is the one where DR. Poppas gave the speach at one ofthe confrences) I got a LOT of questions off that one. I went in with Dr. rink and asked like40 questions. He was very patient and drew diagrams for me.
Don't be afraid to ask any question!!
Also as soon as you knwo the surgery date call the Ronald McDonald house to see about getting on the list.
Definently bring one person with you. I was goign to go by myself but my Mom came with me and I was so so greatful. I was so very tired and would have cracked if it werent for my Mom.
