We all just got back from Phoenix and Tucson where we took our Mom to Arizona Doppler and Tucson Medical Centre for the ultrasound and venogram and venoplasty.

The trip was not too bad. Only a 3 hr direct flight from Vancouver.

Arizona Doppler in Phoenix and Tucson Medical Centre were absolutely amazing. Everyone was beyond accomodating and professional. We've never had better medical service actually. Unfortunatly, being from Canada, we paid for the entire procedure, but my Mom said she would do it again in a second.

The US showed 3 major blockages and some valve deficiancies. (Arizona Doppler actually found a lot more blockages than the one done here in Canada). The Technologist, Erik, spent so much time scanning my Mom. He did a fantastic job. He's big and strong and helped lift my Mom on to the table. She said she was very comfortable the entire time (which is not like her!) The patient coordinator, Heidi, got absolutely everything done for us and was extremely helpful. I'm not sure if I'm allowed to post the name of the Surgeon on here, so feel free to email me if you would like. He was at Saguaro Surgical Centre and did the procedure out of Tucson Medical Center. He was wonderful. The amount of time he spent with us was great. He fully explained everything and actually showed us a video the next day of his procedure. The nurses were awesome as well.

My Mom has had MS for 30 years and is in a wheelchair (has been for 20 years now), so we were not sure what to expect. But so far:

-her feet are not dark blue anymore

-she does not tremor as much

-she can hold out her left hand without it shaking anymore

-she just overall 'feels better'

We're keeping our hopes up for even more improvement as the Doctor said it could take a few weeks to see some more.

It was well worth it for my Mom. I will keep everyone updated on her progress!