PRC expense .. is it worth it ?

@alh123 Hi Alan, how are you? I'm just noticing your post, trying to connect with others who may have paid out of pocket for PRC. I'm sorry there haven't been any responses yet. What a dilemma you have, It is very expensive without insurance! I completely understand your hesitation and reservations on whether the program is worth such a large out of pocket investment. Obviously, I say it is, but then again I had insurance coverage so I can't really speak on it otherwise.

If you decide against going, there are PRC family day videos which I've posted prior that you can re-watch and learn from. Just some thoughts.

How are you feeling about PRC as of late? Still entertaining going?

You’re so kind to check in with me….I really appreciate it. Most people around me are tired of the broken record although well intentioned …I don’t blame them.
Well , I decided in the end that I didn’t have any other choice. I ve got my dates ..April 10 to May 2 . It will be close to $ 100K CAN by the time everything is counted with the Mayo fee …accomo, flights , car, food , wife off work etc . This impacts my retirement…so I’ll be motivated for sure , but still honestly have major concerns how I’m going to physically manage to participate everyday . I feel some days that I’m too far gone ..that this ship has already sailed . My main family confidante who was going to accompany me for part of it just had a health crisis and is now no longer coming. So many barriers to success it seems .
However , on yours and others reassurances , I’m just putting my head down and trying to do anything I can to improve my coping abilities before I go. Working on med weaning and changing my biological clock to fit in is proving to be a real roller coaster . Thoughts about giving up are frequent …the list goes on , but I’m going to do it and hope for the best .
Sorry this turned out to be a bit of an epistle , but I guess I needed to vent a bit !
Thanks for your support .

Congratulations on your PRC date! The first thought that came to mind after reading your reply was...
What good is retirement of any kind if your not able to enjoy it to the "best of your abilities" ?
I'd be willing to bet you worked pretty hard for your retirement savings and although spending it this way may not have been your intention, it's still an investment in yourself...
your well-being, happiness, functionality. It will also pay dividends to your family.

I once thought my ship had sailed, too. Even questioned if I was too far gone (literally questioned Dr. Sletten). Nah! Your eyes will be opened and it will all come together.

Here's a picture of how PRC can help you, if you are all in.

What does PRC stand for? Stem cell therapy?

Remember to keep us posted and good luck.

Hi @martyk - PRC stands for Pain Rehabilitation Center. Mayo Clinic offers 3 PRC locations in Arizona, Minnesota and Florida.

Insurance or not, someone is paying for it.

I would tell you as a father of a daughter who went through the pediatric PRC in MN, be very sure that you believe in the concept of "central sentitization" before you do it. My daughter attended with other youth, who were bad-mouthing the program during the first couple of days. She was honest in her skepticism during the second week. Even though we as parents agreed with it and expressed our commitment, because my daughter was willing to tell a psychologist she didn't believe it was working, we were asked to leave - in day 6, not even halfway through.

Insurance may cover the program, but it doesn't cover the sunk travel costs and the costs of leaving early.

Commit yourself fully to it if you do it - regardless of who is paying.