Dear Dr. Allen,

We wanted to write and thank you and your team for the wonderful work you do in general and specifically with Ellie. You and your staff were accommodating and generous with your time, explaining the procedure and answering our questions. The dedication of you and your staff was very obvious and appreciated. The operation went very smoothly or as you said "textbook." Being away from home was difficult, but you made us feel welcome and we could not be happier for making the decision to go to New Orleans for the procedure.

The recovery is coming along on schedule. Flue has limited stamina, but is giving better on a daily basis. The bruising is almost gone with no complications at this time.

We were having difficulty getting that arranged to be done here by our HMO in San Diego. On the plus side, the plastic surgeon's office in San Diego did call us on Monday, October 28th to schedule an appointment to remove the drain. We simply told them that had been done in New Orleans.

Thank you again for your pioneering efforts and expertise in providing a wonderful alternative to the pedicled TRAM flap. You can be justifiably of the team you have put together. All the doctor's were truly professional. Your entire office staff was very responsive to our concerns and questions. We feel fortunate to have found you and your team, and look forward to seeing you in February 2003 for the follow-up.

Sincerely,

David & Ellie