Thanks, Lori, for managing these dental issues for me as I couldn’t manage it without you. I really like the dentist you took me to in the City, so I’ll be coming back soon for the broken tooth, and probably some more things next year too.
Thanks, Lori, for managing these dental issues for me as I couldn’t manage it without you. I really like the dentist you took me to in the City, so I’ll be coming back soon for the broken tooth, and probably some more things next year too.
I just wanted to have a couple of consults and a small procedure while I was in Guatemala City, before continuing my 6-month tour of Central America. Guatemala Medical Travel normally prepares for major procedures, but Lori was so nice to manage appointments and take me to the doctors, and we got everything done in one day- amazing!
We had a couple hours to kill, so I had my nails done at the fanciest salon and walked around the Oakland Place Mall. I live in L.A. and work in Beverly Hills and that’s the most over-the-top shopping mall I’ve ever seen. Thanks for everything Lori!
My husband and I are over 50 now and paying more attention to preventive medical care and long-term healthcare so we don’t have so many worries later on. We’ve lived in Guatemala for nine years and don’t speak Spanish well, so finding the right doctors and coordinating appointments would be just impossible without Lori and the G.M.T. team to manage all that for us. From cardiology to colonoscopy and a hundred things in between during the last year, Lori has been right there with us to make everything smooth and successful. The progress reports are super helpful in reviewing them for the doctors’ contacts and recommendations.
I live in Guatemala City part-time and happened to meet Lori through some friends. I told them I was planning a 3-month hiking trip last summer, but I was a little worried about not having enough time to get a steroid injection in my ankle back home in Seattle. She called right away to make an appointment with a foot and ankle orthopedic specialist who spoke English, and she even went with me to the doctor two days later. The x-rays, consultation, exam, and injection cost $146!
I could never get such fast and affordable personal care in the States. Of all the things I worried about preparing for and during that trip, my ankle was the only thing that was completely reliable with no problems.
I have lived in Guatemala for over four years, and I’ve seen several posts online from people here looking for good doctor referrals, so I would like to put in my 2-cents worth in that area. We called Lori Shea at Guatemala Medical Travel for guidance with planning procedures, and the doctors she introduced to us were amazing. When our friend came down here for rhinoplasty, we totally trusted the plastic surgeon in the Directory because Lori has included a complete profile of information about his education, sub-specialties, patient reviews, and a gallery of photos. And it’s in English, so that’s much easier for foreign patients.
For things like dermatology, dentists, and my wife’s gynecologist we use her Medical Directory and we can just go on our own, since we live in the City and speak Spanish. Now, we have fantastic doctors right in our neighborhood. I hope other people will find her services as useful as we have.
I had two hernias repaired laparoscopically, and I’m heading back to our home in San Juan del Obispo (Antigua) in much better shape than I have been in for a long time. I have to thank Lori Shea and her expertise in knowing the best of the best in the medical world, and her guidance in navigating the systems here in Guatemala City.
The doctors treated me so well, with respect, laughter, and intelligence. The nursing and service staff were some of the most attentive, hard-working, pleasant, and qualified hospital staff I have ever encountered. There are a lot of challenges adapting to and living in a new country, so I truly believe in the work Lori does with Guatemala Medical Travel, and in the private healthcare available in Guatemala.
Thanks so much Lori for your connections with some of the best doctors in Guatemala City. I went to the dentist, the cardiologist, and we got some great footage of me doing breathing exams with the pulmonary doctor. We really appreciate your interview about the Medical Travel company, too! If all goes well with editing and distribution, the full-length documentary will be on Amazon Prime in Sept 2026.
I will definitely be returning to Guatemala for my medical needs in the future.
I’ve been feeling pretty good, like I have more stamina and energy during the day, and my heart situation is doing just fine. Your cardiologist also said that as my heart gets stronger, my blood pressure will go up and he’s right – I continue to send him results from my BP monitor every week by the phone app. We look forward to seeing you in January. Not sure of the exact dates, but we will coordinate with you before we make our flight reservations.
We’re so glad that you are able to help us!! We both really enjoy our time with you and really like the cardiologist. Plus, it is a great excuse to go to Guatemala. Thanks again for all your help!!
Thanks so much for your help over the years. What a great accomplishment this is for Mario. And as much as he appreciates the financial help with all the doctors, my greater pleasure is in his appearance. His dental work is obviously helping with his health and visible weight gain. Seeing this improvement for Mario just makes me happy all over.
Good for you, Lori. Way better than just well done. Witnessing you change lives for people who need help is a great pleasure. Thank you and bless you for your work.
Thanks again, Lori. My words are not enough to show our appreciation for all that you have done and what you’re doing for us now – way beyond kind and helpful. My husband was in an awful situation, and we could not manage all this medical attention without you. You helped to save his life, and my words aren’t enough to begin to express our gratitude. Already, you’ve been more than family. Sleep well.
Our friend Lori Shea has a great medical directory online and can help with doctors, clinics, labs and hospitals. She is also a medical concierge and can help you navigate appointments until you get your footing with Guatemalan culture, language and medical systems. There is a solid high-quality medical world here in Guatemala City, when you know where to go and how to navigate it. We were registered nurses and graduate nursing professors in the USA and Lori introduced us to medical care here that rivals the best we have experienced in the States.
I consulted with Lori Shea about finding a great dentist, but I didn’t need the medical advocate and companion services. No problem, because we have the Medical Directory now, so we can read all about the doctors she knows and trusts and go there alone for the appointment. I went to the dentist she recommended in Antigua, and he did an excellent job. First, by telling me I don’t even need half of the work that my other dentist suggested. His price was fair, everything was clean, and he respected that I aim to avoid chemicals. He explained everything I needed to know, showed me images and was professional throughout.
Thank you Lori, for providing the Medical Directory to all of our community around finding high quality medical and dental care in Guatemala.
Anybody who needs help finding a doctor, be it for a like-threatening condition or a cosmetic issue, should call Lori. She is like a travel agent for medical attention, with all the details planned in advance. She will set you up with the right doctor, negotiate costs, let you stay in her guest room, and drive you to the hospital. Without her, I would never have made it to the capital for morning appointments. I couldn’t even leave my house before noon. She took great care of me and got the help I needed, and I’m ecstatic to tell you today that it has been confirmed: I’m cured!
It’s been two months now, and I put on 12 pounds in just a few weeks, after wasting away to nothing, no matter how much I ate. I think I will be saying goodbye to my six-pack abs, but it won’t be missed.
I had a major semi-emergency surgery here in Guatemala City and I had an amazing doctor, (who was better than most doctors I’ve had in the U.S.) that I found through Lori Shea. I can’t recommend her highly enough, as she can speak more thoroughly to medical care in Guatemala better than anyone else. It’s her business to help people coming here to get excellent medical care that is way less expensive than what they’d have to pay out of pocket in the U.S.
Thankfully, my insurance covered it, but even out-of-pocket the expenses would have been a fraction of what you’d pay in the States. The hospital was well-run, immaculately clean, and of course my surgeon spoke perfect English.
Just a quick note to say: Some folks know I had prostate surgery this morning – BPH blocking flow, backed up to the kidneys, potential kidney failure. A little scary, but here I am post-op, feeling fabulous and grateful for the support of so many friends, especially Lori Shea at Guatemala Medical Travel. Surgery was state-of-the-art HoLEP laser with rapid recovery time, so I’m going home tomorrow! Looking forward to spending lots more time around these crazy Guatemalan volcanoes.
I have had various medical appointments in Guatemala City with Lori’s services, including a skin tumour and a rare eye surgery. The surgeon actually performed it as a training procedure with medical students. I found that not only is the medical care in Guatemala City very reasonable, but first class in both doctors and equipment. Thanks to Lori and her amazing business of helping people arrange medical procedures, if I need further care, I will not hesitate to have it done in Guatemala.
Lori Shea has made it so easy to access, schedule, and follow up with doctors in Guatemala City. She has done it for me on several occasions and has helped so many of our friends here. If the USA medical providers, system or insurance aren’t working for you, it’s worth contacting G.M.T. and Lori to have medical and dental here. I’ve had so many conversations with friends in the USA that are struggling with costs of care and/or availability of doctors, that I wanted to remind people that medical care in Guatemala is high level, with doctors trained around the world and speaking English. Generally, the medical bills here are less than the cost of several month of premiums or your share of co-pays and deductibles.
You have done a superior job for my Dad and keeping us [his family] informed. Thank you so much for your service and human care and kindness towards my father. I trust he will find that assistance he may need in the future, too. You’re the best.
Guatemala Medical Travel has done all the work in interviewing and qualifying the best doctors. She is so organized and professional. Having Lori there to take notes and record all the preparation and post-op instructions is crucial – it keeps the stress level low, so I can focus on recuperation. And Lori’s a great cook – there is always something healthy and delicious to eat during my recovery time.
Wonderful work, Lori!! Thank you for doing this; it is so very useful for residents of Guatemala and those wishing to travel to GT for their medical care. You make the medical experience much more available and user-friendly, while prices here are a fraction of the United States.
Lori is top notch in her field. She takes all the time needed to make sure all your needs are taken care of, and that you are matched with the right doctors. She’s been doing this for a long time and is truly an asset to the community.
I want to thank you for getting me here, and I have at least another day of testing. I’m so glad I reached out to you, and you responded right away. Now I have contact with all the best specialists – the doctors and nurses here are amazing.
Audrey loves telling the story of how her shoulder injury happened and her experience with GMT and the doctors. Everything is going well now, and she sings your praises – about the care from your staff during recovery, and the fabulous doctors and hospital in Guatemala City. I have filed her insurance reimbursements and am waiting for payment. Your detailed notes and receipt management helped greatly.
I can’t say thank you enough for the professional care, attention, and patience you showed Audrey and our family. We could not have navigated the process without you.
Lori was essential both when I had my gallbladder emergency surgery and when I had the hernia repair afterward; I couldn’t have negotiated a hospital stay without her. She is not only a great friend but a member of my ‘team’ of people who keep me safe and well here. We are all very lucky to have her in our lives!
After a busy, exhausting day there’s nothing like wrapping up in a warm blanket, putting in some ear plugs, and dozing to the sound of BUZZZZ BUZZZZZ CLICK CLICK CLICK CRAAAAAANK CRAAAAAAAANK for a relaxing half hour. Check-up MRI done!
Nothing’s wrong, I don’t have any symptoms, but I need check-ups every few years to make sure the brain tumor is not growing back. MRI results will be in tomorrow. And a million thanks to Lori Shea for arranging everything for me. If you ever need any medical procedures done in Guatemala, she’s the expert to contact!!
Due to osteoarthritis, I needed a hip replacement, so I spoke to a few orthopedic surgeons and the general consensus was that even though I could get this surgery [near my home] in Belize, it would be better and more cost effective to get it done elsewhere, so I started researching options for having the surgery in Guatemala. I quickly realized that setting everything up (surgery, recovery, etc) from Belize would be complicated, especially with my limited Spanish ability.
I remember hearing about a company called Guatemala Medical Travel (GMT). I contacted them and after asking a lot of questions, I decided to work with them. GMT took care of everything from the scheduling to the billing and made the entire process simple. The day before the surgery I had pre-op testing and GMT walked me through everything and acted as translator. I was then admitted for surgery for the following morning.
Everything about the hospital was amazing. It was modern, clean, and the entire staff was professional and very friendly. I spent a total of two nights in the hospital, then I went to a patient guest house that GMT runs in Antigua for my recovery. I spent three weeks there. It included wound care by a visiting nurse and physical therapy sessions.
Everything in this entire process went amazingly smoothly. I can wholeheartedly recommend Guatemala Medical Travel and the fantastic doctors in Guatemala City.
I am writing to relate my “much more than satisfactory” experience with Ms. Lori Shea and her company, Guatemala Medical Travel. In September of 2020 I became aware that the mesh that I had installed in the U.S. to correct a ventral hernia had failed. Although I have insurance that would have paid 100% of the cost of another surgery in the U.S. and only 80% in Guatemala, I was both unable to travel to the U.S. because the Guatemala airport was closed and unwilling to travel because of the pandemic. I was at a loss as to how to proceed, when two good friends here in Guatemala recommended Lori’s services.
I contacted Lori and was so impressed with her attitude that I immediately contracted with her to handle my surgery. I expected her service to be good, but it far exceeded my expectations. She made an appointment for me with a wonderful surgeon, arranged my admission to the best hospital in Guatemala City, assisted me in checking in (my Spanish is very weak!) and, in short, was with me all the way.
She also prepared all the necessary forms for my application for reimbursement from my insurance company (Humana) in such a thorough and professional way that within a month I received everything that was coming to me. I have no doubt that she saved me much more money than her relatively modest fee, and infinitely more than that in terms of trouble and worry.
I highly recommend Lori’s service to anyone who for any reason is contemplating surgery. The costs of surgery here are much less than those in the U.S., Lori deals with only the most highly skilled medical personnel, and the hospital facilities that she contracts for are the equal of any I have experienced in the U.S. Lori is First Class!
Lori: Many, many thanks for the help you provided my mother-in-law with her illness the past couple of months. Being in the United States and unable to travel to Guatemala, knowing she had your help allowed me to sleep at night. Keep up the good work and continue to help those in need. This such a great service
Lori Shea works hard to make sure your stay and medical experiences are a breeze. I came to Guatemala through references of several long-term friends of mine. They all had very good experiences with Guatemala Medical Travel.
I came for a couple minor procedures and ended up getting multiple issues attended to during my stay. I never would have been able to do that in the United States, and certainly couldn’t afford it. I saw four specialists in a week! I didn’t even realize how much I needed them. I had a dental issue for two years I didn’t realize how serious it was. Lori got me an appointment immediately. Top of the line diagnostic equipment and great bed-side manners with all the doctors I saw. They took the time to explain all procedures and were very supportive. I plan to go back for checkups and to tour around beautiful Antigua.
David and I cannot say enough good things about the medical care in Guatemala. We’ve experienced a few health issues requiring treatment… and called GMT for guidance.
The MD’s here are extremely personable, well-educated and appreciatively, they spend time explaining diagnosis and treatment with the patient. Also, it’s the doctors who perform the testing such as EKG’s, ultrasounds [not nurses or techs]. Except for blood being drawn we’ve dealt entirely with the exceptional physicians. For example, we recently made a visit to the ER. The doctor was in the room with us for 45 minutes total (unlike the usual 2-3 minutes in the U.S.). A complete exam was performed, the cost was very reasonable, and most importantly the patient is cured!
Thanks so much for bringing me to the right doctor. He was thorough, prompt, informative and obviously knew how to fix my heart problems – everything we wanted in a cardiologist. We could never have navigated all the appointments, instructions, procedures and follow up care without your careful attention and daily updates. Dr. C. is now the “go to” doctor for me and my husband, and we are thankful that Guatemala Medical Travel to introduce us to the very best doctors, from open heart surgery to dental work and everything in between.
Hi Lori… Just a short note to thank you for all your help and support to Peter, Helen, and me when he suffered a burst brain aneurysm last October. As I have said to you in person, your intervention was so crucial to Peter getting the best medical help available which was critical to his surviving such a devastating incident. Thankfully, Peter’s surgery was successful, and he continues to do well. We are hoping to have him back in Ireland in early February. We are deeply grateful for all you did for us.
It’s now two months since I’ve returned to Connecticut from Guatemala, and I’m still running into old friends and acquaintances who rave about my new white smile. They tell me I look like myself, only better. And I tell them that my dental experience in Guatemala was a trip of a lifetime and a dream come true.
I had crowns, resin fillings, and laser whitening, all-in-all over $10,000 worth of dental work, at a cost of only $3,000. Even with airfare it was still less than half of what I would have paid in the U.S. What’s more, I had the pleasure of meeting the charming Guatemalan dentist who did the work swiftly and painlessly during short visits over several days. I sat in his chair looking at ancient beams in the ceiling while, through an open window, bougainvillea blossoms swayed from a vine in a courtyard.
The person who made all of this happen, who found my perfect dentist, helped me make treatment decisions, squired me to and from appointments and served as a top-notch travel guide was the unstoppable Lori Shea. She is a gifted medical matchmaker as well as a gracious hostess. It is her energy and smarts that lead me to the beautiful moment when I heard Dr. Sami say: “Your mouth is healthy, your teeth are strong and protected, your smile is all set for life.” It’s by far the best gift I’ve ever given myself.
While trying to research local doctors to treat my infection and injury, I found Guatemala Medical Travel. With years of research behind them, GMT knows all the best doctors in Guatemala. They set up my appointments, drove me into the city, helped in the recovery process, and invited me to stay in their beautiful guest house. I had probably $15,000 worth of laboratory tests done, saw 7 doctors, and began physical therapy, all for about $2,000 in the week I was in Antigua. Every doctor treated me like a human, took interest in my case, and spoke English fluently. The doctors were up to par if not better than ones I have experienced in the US. I got an hour with each for a fraction of the price I would have paid in the States.
Lori and the rest of the staff at GMT made me feel safe, welcome, and healthy again. GMT is an amazing agency here in Antigua- a quaint city that is surrounded by the most beautiful volcanoes! After doing some research about GMT I found that they mostly do major surgeries and other massively expensive medical procedures that are plaguing the US. What a genius idea! I had a great experience here at GMT and would highly recommend their services to anyone- traveler or not- who needs to get high quality health care at a low price.
My ophthalmology surgeons in Antigua did the most caring, loving surgery that anyone can imagine. The tone of voice, camaraderie and deep feelings of intuition that were shown to me were beyond my furthest expectations, much less imaginings. The female anesthesiologist and the female technician worked with each other like a beautiful symphony. The room was filled with loving feelings toward each other as well as to me.
The attention to the details that are overlooked in the U.S. made for an exquisite experience of being truly cared about as a person and not as a number. The husband – wife team showed deep respect for each other in their communication which gave me even more confidence in them. Lori Shea’s level of professionalism mixed with her gift of being a care giver from the depths of her being, has made me want to shout about her from the rooftops. I feel that I now have quite a list of folks that are acquaintances now, in Guatemala, that are destined to be friends for the rest of my life.
I came to Guatemala for dental work after being in significant discomfort for a few months. The dental staff were professional, punctual, courteous and kind and they fixed my problem. I left Antigua pain free, with beautifully smooth crowns and no further discomfort.
It was a wonderful experience, and Lori made the process of getting there seamless, simple, and stress free!! Between the money exchange, cell phones and personalized service, I cannot emphasize how much the experience was top shelf from the beginning to the end. I have and will continue to recommend GMT to friends, family and patients, should they need medical services of the highest caliber for the fraction of the price. Kudos to you Lori, and your vision of affordable, high quality health care for those in need.
For starters, thank you all for your efforts and attention to Sherry’s medical needs. We learned so much and came away with more than we had hoped. Great personal and medical attention and enough information to start our own liver clinic! You really impacted her life in a positive way. She was almost defeated because the “best medical system” in the world turned their backs on her.
As for Megan’s work… Well, we could not be happier having had her as Sherry’s nurse. We’re just ever so happy to have made the trip and had the opportunity to make new friends – and get some awesome medical care. … THANK YOU!
Your sincere and compassionate help was more than we could have asked for and it meant the world to Sherry. She is such a caring and compassionate soul – she needed exactly the attention you provided. Please know that your efforts will continue to have a tremendously positive effect on her, and me, as we go forward. Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.
As we go forward, we’ll send periodic updates. Until then, thank you all again for everything and we hope to see you in the future – hopefully under different circumstances. There will always be a place for you to stay in Sacramento. Our Love and Gratitude to All.
Take care Lori and God Bless! Keep the faith and carry on with the mission. God has rewards for those who take care of others. Feel free to use our testimonial as you wish. It’s heartfelt and true!
Guatemala Medical Travel has been everything and more than I could have expected. Anyone would be nervous scheduling a medical procedure in another country. Sometimes you second guess your own instincts. But I can tell you the service provided was far above what I expected. Lori Shea sets up all your appointments, provides lodging, and even picks you up at the airport. I felt like I was visiting family rather than having a medical procedure. Her hospitality has made me feel at home and my recovery a breeze.
I really didn’t know what to expect from the surgeon when I arrived. Lori had told me he is one of the best doctors around, and he definitely lived up to her description. He was very professional; spoke perfect English and I was very happy that he never tried to oversell me on my procedure. He was open and very honest about what he could do and what he felt would give me the best results. His office and staff are amazing, everything new, clean and efficient. They go out of their way to make sure you feel comfortable. Would I recommend Guatemala Medical Travel and their doctors? You bet – 100%!
I can only imagine that I hurt my back 30 years ago while doing a Navy diver’s course. In my spine, I have a lumbar vertebra which is crushed, or still being crushed by disks both above and below. This bone and the nerves to my legs were being attacked by bacteria.
After five months of deterioration, my daughter came to visit me and immediately called Guatemala Medical Travel.
Lori gave her directions to the top Guatemala City hospital and instructions to have me there as soon as possible. Lori met us there on Sunday afternoon and had me admitted immediately. After five days intensive care and seven days of further hospitalization, I went to stay at Casa Muriel in Antigua. Here, I was visited twice daily by a nurse for intravenous antibiotic medication and received personal care by Lori herself.
For two months I was either unable to walk or barely getting around. I’ve been back on my boat for some months and getting better slowly. I’m walking again now but it still might be some time before I can go sailing again. But, without Lori I might not be writing to you.
After what has been quite an interesting couple of days, I need to thank Lori Shea and my surgeons at Herrera Llerandi for literally saving my life! On 5:30 on Sunday morning I woke with pain like I’ve never felt before. If that’s a Zacapa hangover, then nobody would ever drink Zacapa again! Turned out to be an acute gall bladder attack. Lucky to have Lori there in a few minutes to coordinate everything, the ambulance rushed me, moaning and screaming, all the way to Guatemala City. I was poked, scanned, prodded, and ultimately operated on in a few hours, revealing a whole handful of gallstones, one of which is as big as a walnut.
After two days of wonderful care, I am home now and resting, contemplating a life without fatty food. I am very thankful for the support of all my friends…love you and don’t know what I’d do without you. The photos are of my medical team with me on the table, and the Celebrity Gallstone. The surgeon took the photos and put them on his own FB page, and hospital resident docs were stopping by to have a peek. Damn that hurt!!!! Glad to be alive…
Lori runs a small but very professional service to make it easy to get some of the best medical care in the world. She understands and anticipates your needs and concerns before you even do yourself. My doctor was extremely competent. He found another problem and combined fixing it with my hernia repair. He scheduled me between transplant operations and came to visit me before and after surgery, and again to check on me the next day. Staying at Casa Muriel is like being part of a family where everyone helped with everything.
As a fire chief in Long Beach, CA, I developed a pre-hospital system that trained paramedics and firefighters, so I had a very strong background in the medical system and thought I knew how it all worked. However, I am now retired and living in Guatemala. When I found out I had prostate cancer I chose to listen to my family doctor who recommended a urologist, who literally butchered my urinary canal with a laser, instead of going directly to a cancer specialist.
After the cancer spread to my left femur, I turned everything over to my pal, Lori. She took me by the hand and led me through what was, to me, uncharted water. She has done a masterful job of learning all about the doctors and their skills. Needless to say, I owe her my life, or at least my undying gratitude.
Dear Lori…. Please feel free to use this letter of thanks as a testimonial to the superb service I received while under the care of your travel service. My friends and family in the United States had major concerns about me receiving medical care in Central America, however, I had done my homework by reviewing your website and felt confident that your doctors and facilities were top notch. At the time, I was very unhappy with the quality of care I was receiving in the U.S. for a recurring infection and stomach issues that no one could seem to cure.
When I say that all I had to do once I arrived at my beautiful suite and private bath was to get up and get dressed, I meant literally just that. Three delicious meals were served each day, transportation to all doctor appointments, procedures and surgeries were provided and a G.M.T. nurse was present with me every step of the way. Every physician I saw spoke English, was very thorough in their examinations and made certain all of my questions were answered. The facilities were 21st century and the staff friendly and accommodating. All tests were done right at the doctor’s office instead of having to travel to separate facilities. Medications were included.
In between appointments I was entertained by being taken to museums, jazz clubs, out to dinner, and visited the local town of Antiqua for sightseeing. Who would have ever thought that the process of facing medical procedures would be such a pleasant experience?
I consulted with three top-notch specialists: Dermatologist, ENT, and Gynecologist. Over 7 days I had these procedures: Cystoscopy, CAT Scan, Chest X-ray, MRI of shoulder and lower back, Bone Density Scan, Complete Blood Work and colonoscopy, PLUS an arthroscopic surgery and manipulation on my left shoulder. I was provided with full reports, films and videos to bring back to the US. All of the above was done for a fraction, and I stress fraction, of what I would have paid back home.
Your service has been touted to everyone I know who is unhappy with the medical care and exorbitant costs of care in the United States. Should I ever require further medical attention, I will be contacting Guatemala Medical Travel.
For 50-odd years, I have lived for the sun – on the beach and in the ocean. For the last 20 years I was warned all the time: “Wear your sunscreen and sunglasses for protection”. Even so, I never expected this…
Sometimes you see an irregular mole your back or face, but this time I got a cyst on my cornea! Yep, my precious eyeball. Treatment and surgery were hugely expensive in Miami, so thank you to Guatemala Medical Travel and Lori Shea for getting me back on the road to perfect vision again.
Surgery was three days ago, and on next Saturday the tiny, microscopic stitches will be removed. My surgeon was beyond extraordinary, in fact I could not see him earlier than last Saturday because he was called to Chicago on a consult (yeah, he is that good). I will still continue to live in my beach house 20 feet from the ocean, so if you see me, I will be the grateful one, in the hat, with the wrap-around sunglasses. I’m HAPPY folks!
From the moment I met the heart surgeon, I felt confident. Lori described him as “the best” and after our first consultation about a triple by-pass heart surgery, they gave me complete confidence in his skills. On the day of the surgery the doctor met with us in my room and then outside the operating room, explaining what would be happening next and how long it was likely to take. When I came out of the operating room, he was right there with me, and I knew instinctively that good work had been done.
Lori from Guatemala Medical Travel and Dr. Bonilla and his cardio-thoracic team checked on me regularly in intensive are for the six days I was there. Recovery was as expected, and I feel that I have 20 more years of life to add to my 78 years!
I was diagnosed with tonsil/tongue cancer in Florida and had surgery there at an exorbitant price, and with extremely unsatisfactory results. The doctor in Florida knew I had no insurance, so he neglected to offer any after-surgery care (chemo/radiation therapy) and two months later, the cancer came roaring back involving my neck and lymph glands.
In Guatemala, I remembered folks talking about an outfit called Guatemala Medical Travel, and the excellent care/prices they received while there, so I emailed them. Happily, I’m still here to share the story. After corresponding with Lori, the director of this service, I flew to Guatemala and was picked up at the airport and whisked off to the beautiful colonial city of Antigua and my home for the next 2 1/2 months. Within 24 hours, I had consultations with the best medical specialists, plus CT scans, blood work, EKG, meetings with the ENT team and the radiology specialist, and two days later had surgery on my neck and lymph glands. Then came 6 weeks of radiation therapy. The hospital was 1st class, the doctors (all fluent in English) graduates of schools/hospitals such as Johns-Hopkins, Sloane- Kettering, etc., and the radiology facility/equipment was brand new and state of the art.
The cost of surgery/treatment was 1/6 of that of the U.S. but, most importantly, the level of care was incredible; the doctors/nurses treated me as a person not a number and I can honestly say that these people are now among my friends—something I cannot say of their U.S. counterparts who seemed more interested in the depth (or lack of) my bank account.
I tripped and fell down, shattering my left elbow. OUCH. There was NO help available in the Rio Dulce/Morales area, other than x-rays, which proved the need for a skilled orthopedic surgeon. Lori Shea at Guatemala Medical Travel paved the way, making an appointment the same day I got to the city. She met me and took me to Multimedica, where the doctor made a very thorough exam, explaining and answering my many questions. Did I mention he speaks perfect English? Right there at the first visit, I knew I was in good hands.
Surgery was scheduled and duly performed, with only an overnight stay in an elegant hospital. I now have a plate and 7 screws, my first education on how it all fuses. Follow up care was simplified with the personal touch that Lori is known for, in transportation and scheduling. I am healing, mending, and doing the physical therapy necessary to get total mobility back. With your help, I am grateful to have found the solution to what could have been a permanently crippling future.
In September 2011, I had a total right hip replacement in Guatemala City. It was tricky arranging the details from Canada where my wife and I were visiting family and that’s why I contacted Lori Shea from Guatemala Medical Travel. She was in contact via email and arranged bank transfers, sought out accommodations for me and Carole and made sure that the prosthesis I wanted was available prior to our flying to Guatemala.
Lori met us in the City, then arranged and drove us to my initial consultations with the surgeon and cardiologist. She also took us to have my blood work done and x-rays taken. The doctors and the hospital facilities were first rate with a caring staff that made me feel like I was their only patient. There were hugs, kisses and sincere wishes for a speedy recovery on my departure from the hospital. Lori arranged for the ambulance to take me to La Antigua for my recuperation and her staff drove Carole back to the apartment.
They made sure I had the necessary equipment and Lori contacted a nurse to ensure that my staples were removed on time. She also organized physical therapy sessions to take place in our apartment. Taking the paperwork off our hands, she kept us up-to-date with medical, financial and all medication details.
Lori handled scheduling efficiently, and she was generous with her offers to take Carole shopping or drop us off at places, and was always in contact with us throughout our two months in Antigua. The GMT staff were friendly and helpful. In fact, I can honestly recommend GMT to anyone thinking about having medical treatment in Guatemala. They provided a peace of mind for both of us and I’m sure this helped in my speedy recovery.
Lori handled everything with ease and lightheartedness which I really appreciated, since I had been nervous about the prognosis. Everything turned out great. The doctor was excellent, better than most doctors I’ve encountered in the States, and not only was he knowledgeable, professional and prepared, he was funny and very personable too.
I felt like I was under very good care and will recommend GMT to everyone! I had a wonderful experience before with a dentist Lori recommended. I would not hesitate to contact her for any of my future medical needs.
Thanks again for everything. I really appreciate your help. It set my mind at ease to hear that I didn’t need surgery and that my situation wasn’t as serious as I thought it might have been. I didn’t realize how much it had been weighing on me. All the symptoms are improving so far, I’m a lot more comfortable, and I am following the doctor’s advice. He was a sweetheart, just like you said.