Hi Marie !! I just read your blog and I want to tell you my experience . I actually just got my lap band done in Tijuana Mexico and I am 100% happy that I did !! The nurses are so extremely nice to you they care for you in such a way its speechless !! I did not do it w/ Dr Ortiz but yes in Tijuana !! Your friends are saying TJ is dangerous or what ever NO be open minded about it Mexico has some of the best Dr's In the USA we got people all over the country going to TJ to get work done . The fear is normal but your health is important !! Focus on you now and take my advice its not bad in Tijuana !!!