The Importance of Health Insurance in Ecuador (channel update)

[@amarilloaristocrat8435]

My first week in Cuenca, I decided to get health insurance with Blue Box.

[@ericandsandy]

I think any insurance is good to have until you figure out which is the best for you. Lesson learned. Double protection from now on.. travel insurance until all the perks are available with the health insurance. Most take 90 days for hospitalization. Thanks for all of your support. Hope to see you soon and Happy Holidays to you.

[@amarilloaristocrat8435]

@@ericandsandy , Do you reside in Idaho? If so, I wish you well.

[@ericandsandy]

We are in Idaho..safe and sound until we come back to Cuenca. Thank you.

[@robertmartinez988]

Good luck to you

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you

[@-COMMON-MAN]

❤

[@bombadil1977]

Eric and Sandy! We've not met, but I have enjoyed following you both and your process/journey/adventures in Ecuador. Our spirits are in common. My exploratory trip was throughout the month of December and although I do not have a 1-way ticket at this moment, it'll likely be within a month. I have missed you! Sorry that you had GU adventures to suffer through, Eric and I hope they're not an issue for you for now. Tom😃

[@ericandsandy]

Hey Tom. Thank you for the well wishes. Eric's health is 100%. We're on the fast track to get back to Cuenca . We feel like we left our hearts there. Thanks again for everything.. the comment, the well wishes and your support . We appreciate it all so much

[@bombadil1977]

@@ericandsandy Now I am here in Cuenca and look forward to the day when we can sit down together!

[@ericandsandy]

Absolutely! We can't wait to meet you as well.

[@hydrazi]

I am already planning on the insurance for when we arrive in Ecuador.

[@ericandsandy]

I would enter with travel insurance and keep it until you get every perk with the ecuadorian insurance. Ours was 90 days for hospitalization. That's why nothing was covered

[@spark_6710]

Oh...I'm sorry to hear you have a medical issue !! I hope that you have recovered since !! I am prone to kidney stones myself ! I totally sympathize !! 😮 😨🙏💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💕💞

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. Kidney stones are horrible. Sorry you have to go through that as well.

[@spark_6710]

@ericandsandy It's funny in my case & not funny because it can go real serious ...,but I have never been that sick . Ever since I got crystals in my urine ( I got medication to melt it ) in my early 20's ,I became prone to kidney stones I think. I had a crazy dull pain in my sleep about 6 years ago & I automatically touched where it hurt & I grabbed it ,it was a bean shaped I could feel & it felt like a water balloon made of soft silicone !! But,the symptoms were gone by the next day afternoon !! In a way ,I was lucky ! I went to see a nephrologist about a week or two later ( because of my crazy menstrual cycle issues caused by other female issues ,I was bleeding too much ,too often ,I had to wait for the chance .) ,the doctor didn't diagnose !! Strange that he didn't even check inside of my mouth ,my mom went with me ,she still doesn't understand this ,either ! I just did my urine / blood tests despite I was still having my period ! After that I've been experiencing pain around my kidneys often ,but no fever or other significant symptoms except for urine volume change & frequency & pain comes / goes ! And some strange bladder issues. My late grandmother had a kidney stone when she was younger & told me the pain was worse than giving birth !! 😱Thank you so much for your kind words & replies !! And Happy New Year ! The year of the dragon ! 🐲🍾🥂🎈 💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@Sketchbook9999]

Use castor oil on a pad and put on your tummy to break the stones

[@ericandsandy]

That's awesome. I did that for him when his lower back was in all sorts of pain. Thanks for the tip.

[@spark_6710]

Sepsis is very very scary !! You can die from it !! Thank god you were o.k.!! 😨🙏👍👍💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💞

[@ericandsandy]

Very scary. The Dr told us the day after we did this video that if Eric wasn't as healthy as he was ..he wouldn't have made it. Those were the scariest words we have ever heard.

[@spark_6710]

@ericandsandy WOW !! That's crazy scary indeed ! My sister's close friend got sepsis during her labor at her hospital & that caused her baby ,her son, to have cerebral palsy !! They sued & won. But,very sadly, their son's been suffering a lot !! He is a very handsome & smart boy !! Thank you so much for your replies !! 💜🙏💕

[@LyannLaRochelle]

Omg I should've watch this video sooner, so sorry to hear. I'm glad that you're ok, but yes financially that hurts. We miss your videos and I would still watch them even from the states 😉. We can't wait to move there and meet you guys !!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. There will be some more coming soon. Can't wait to meet you either. We'll all go out to lunch when we get back. Talk to you soon

[@janinaplaza1331]

God bless you.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you very much. Happy New Year

[@patricioizurieta6727]

Hey Eric and Sandy, well a little too much with all those things that happened to you Eric but i see how strong and powerful you are as a man and Sandy always having your back its all you need, My name is Cristopher, and im from Cuenca but i live in Des Moines with my girlfriend Julie she is a gringa and we have had watched your videos all the time. We literally cry for all the stuff that happened to you but we are glad everything is relatively okay.! God bless you guys best of the wishes and i will be taking Julie for the first time ever to Cuenca this December and i will show her the año viejo and all the beautifulness of Cuenca. Thanks for your videos keep them up even in the states, show how cool life here is as well.

[@ericandsandy]

Hola Christopher. Thank you so much for your well wishes and kind words. Eric is doing 100% better. What a scary time we were in. But we are good and that's all that matters.❤❤ We have a niece that lives in Vail Iowa. I am 100 percent positive Julie is going to fall in love with Ecuador. Have the best time in your travels back home. Hopefully we can meet one day soon. Thank you so much for watching our videos. Take care and sorry for the delay in this response. Happy New Year

[@ele5011]

Safe travels!! Come back soon

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. We will be back as soon as possible

[@davidbrandon9271]

You could try to save up money, creste your own business in Cuenca, get ecuador citizenship and get Universal Healthcare, you could also employ locals, a great idea would be to have an American style restaurant in Cuenca, with country music and some good BBQ.

[@ericandsandy]

That's part of the plan. (Great minds..) Just had a little hiccup. Can't wait to get back. Thanks for the tip and thank you for your support. Happy New Year

[@ginnamoreno7427]

Hola Eric y Sandy. I miss you guys!!!!😢 Hope you come back to Ecuador soon! Love your videos.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much! We'll be there soon. Not soon enough, but soon. All our best! ❤😀

[@ginnamoreno7427]

​@@ericandsandygreat news!!!! Un abrazo y muchas bendiciones!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you

[@JeffHalapin]

Great to see you guys at the pizza joint today. Hopefully you'll be back soon and we can share a glass of wine and pizza!

[@ericandsandy]

It was so nice to meet you both. We can't wait to get back to Cuenca. When we get back..pizza and wine for sure. Thank you for your support. Happy New Year. See you soon

[@annesullivan9996]

Thank you for all your information as we have a planned trip in Aug for 2 weeks.. I hope to visit some of the places you and Sandy recommend.. God Bless yall hope to see more of your videos soon!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you Anne. Have a wonderful trip, we hope you love Ecuador as much a we do. Bring 50+ sunscreen, a black travel umbrella, and a lightweight rain jacket and good walking shoes. We also got Native Organs Altitude Rx from Amazon and starting taking that a week to two weeks before we went to Ecuador the first time. It's all natural. It sure did help with the altitude, for us anyway. Plus drink lots of water when you're there.. take it easy when you arrive.. no big excursions the first couple days. Hope all this info helps you. Safe travels and please let us know how you like Ecuador. Thanks for watching our video and have a wonderful day.

[@randomstuff2411]

Welcome back to cuenca guys

[@whacked00]

Wow! I missed this. So sorry to hear this, but so glad to hear you got through it! Keep well, Eric!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you very much. Doing great and looking forward to getting back to Cuenca. All my best, Eric

[@NenaOso.]

So happy that you are feeling better, Eric! My husband and I are fans & love your channel. We wish you all the best. We will continue to watch ❤

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you very much. Yes I'm feeling great. Like my old self again 😁👍. Thanks for watching and best to you as well

[@henryguerrero9981]

Oye. Eric prueba la badea es una fruta deliciosa en jugos

[@ericandsandy]

We can't wait to try it. Thank you for all of your support watching our videos and commenting. Have a good day my friend. Talk to you again soon.

[@ericlloyd663]

If you still are passing urine through the kidney, not a total blockage, that can be treated non surgically. sorry to hear you went through that. thanks for sharing your story.

[@ericandsandy]

That was the problem. I wasn't able to pass urine. The 12mm stone was completely blocking the tube going from my left kidney to my blader. I saw the blockage on the video from the surgery procedure, before and after it was broken up by the lazer they ran up inside me. Thanks for for watching. All our best

[@BPe-ie9je]

Hi Sandy and Eric, I sent for an insurance quote from Mady, today. Hope you are doing well. Its been relatively balmy weather, UP MI. Very cold and snow comingi now....... (No water shortage) Thinking of you. Thanks for Mady info. Slowly making progress forward. Off to lock in Chickens. Dark early here. Hugs!

[@ericandsandy]

Sorry for the delay in the response...been thinking about you and how you are. I'll be emailing you this coming week. Hope everything is good at the home front. Dark early here too...😊😊

[@DessertcrazyEcuador]

Thanks!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you very much. We appreciate your kindness very much. Have a wonderful day

[@davidgarner6736]

I am a client of Mady also. Very happy with her service.

[@EdwardEspinoza-uf1mv]

I found you guys 😱😱😱☝️☝️😁😁😁😁😁Como estan mis queridos amigos y estudiantes de Español Que Gara verlos 😊keep up the great job Sandy & Eric 👍👍🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇨🇦🇪🇨🇪🇨🇪🇨🇪🇨🇭🇺🇭🇺🇭🇺

[@ericandsandy]

Yay 🙌.. sorry for the delay. We've gotten settled here ..finally. Hope all is well with you and your family. Talk soon. Happy New Year and many blessings .

[@lbec123]

😮 Hi, i just found your videos. They are very enjoyable. You two provide honest and heartwarming content. Please keep up the excellent coverage. Thank you for what you do! The best is yet to come!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you very much and welcome to our community. We're always happy to hear from people that are enjoying our channel. Glad you liked the video. All our best!

[@GringoNation]

Wow guys! I had no idea. I’m very sorry you went through that but what matters most is that you are healthy again and able to work. Sh*t happens unfortunately and what’s important is that we pull ourselves back up! I’m sure you guys will recover financially in no time and continue to live out your dreams. You are both incredible people and I’m so lucky to have met you in person. Until next time friends! Wishing you all the best and happy holidays. :-)))

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. Sorry for the delay in responding. We were excited to meet you and hopefully can meet up again sometime sooner than later. Here's to amazing travels and prosperity this year. Many Blessings.

[@luiscrespo4301]

I enjoy soo much your videos. I am actually moving to Cuenca this year. It would be awesome to meet you guys

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much for watching our videos. Hope to see you around when we get back. Safe travels my friend. Many blessings to you this New Year

[@luiscrespo4301]

@ericandsandy the same to you guys hope you get everything in track and be able to move to cuenca the soonest possible. Just don't let your page day. And keep making videos. It will be nice too see your journey back to ecuador

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you

[@sandrafulcher7611]

Looking forward to meeting you!

[@randomstuff2411]

We will miss you and please take care your self guys

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you. We miss Cuenca very much and can't wait to get back. Happy New Year. Hope to see you all when we get back.

[@riobabic8960]

My wife and 3 sisters are from Cuenca and they have all had kidney stones and gallstones stones, maybe you are a true Cuencan now ! All joking aside thank God You recovered and all the best to you !

[@ericandsandy]

Haha, for real 😅. Thank you very much. All our best 👍

[@SuperCat492]

Glad you are feeling good now, Eric. And thanks for heads up.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you.

[@layshafabiana746]

I am very sorry for what you are going through, I will pray for your health, Ecuador and Cuenca will always be waiting for you with open arms ❤️‍🩹🇪🇨ánimo siempre!

[@tzipporahwilliams2666]

I'm so sorry to hear about your medical problems. My prayers go out for a speedy recovery and quick return to Cuenca for you both.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. We can't wait to get back. Happy Holidays 😊

[@kristiG5259]

Happy and Healthy New Year to you both! 🎉 Hope you're staying warm! Looking forward to new videos upon your return to Ecuador.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you thank you❤❤❤. Many blessings to you and your family for the New Year. We are staying warm...Eric is anyway..I'm always hot so I'm good on this weather😆😆. We can't wait to get back..we are excited for our new plans for Cuenca when we get back. Thank you for watching and commenting. We appreciate it very much.

[@larrypicard8802]

I've had IESS for about a year but haven't had to use it yet.Glad you're better and please return as soon as you can.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you. So glad that you haven't had to use any insurance. That just means you're good and healthy. We will return as soon as we can. Thanks again for all of your support. Have a happy holiday

[@kathybastianelli6982]

I am sorry to hear tht you had to go thru this, but glad you are better! I enjoy your videos and thanks for this information, and importance. Safe travels!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much! Thank you for your support and Happiest Holidays to you

[@hydrazi]

I would definitely continue to make videos. Just quick updates on how things are going. A good channel often shows the good with the bad, friends.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you... we plan on it. We just have to get settled here and will probably put up videos the beginning of the new year.

[@DawnRimmer-p1c]

Hi all, glad you are doing better and so sorry to see you all have to head back to the states. I am sorry to ask, but we are planning to head there as pensioners and I thought IESS or private insurance was mandatory? Your videos have really helped us decide on heading there. Hope to see you guys back soon!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much for watching our video. We've got our nose to the grindstone to hurry back to Cuenca. I would have your private insurance ready to go at least 2 months prior to going...Mady is great..I would contact her...she is very helpful. Thanks again for your support and your comment. Have a great day and hope to see you when we get back.

[@lizmariewest1514]

I’m sorry too about the health issues but there’s Devine planning for everything, main thing you both are happy and blessed. We will miss ya’ - chao 😊

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you. Yes, we are firm believers that everything happens for a reason. Maybe we didn't finish something on our path in the states. We are settled in now and are working as hard as we can to get back to Cuenca as soon as possible. I hope your holidays were filled with Joy, love and laughter. Here's to many blessings for the New Year.

[@crruan1142]

Approximately 35K USD for total expenditures including meds and such is really extraordinary. You'd've gone bankrupt Stateside with 15 days hospitalization and all the procedures (between 250K to a 1 million USD easily) and you'd be fighting the Ins companies for the rest of your life. You also have to do a separate vid on the importance of having a Patient Advocate (in this case your wife) to represent you viz a vis the hospital, treating medical team and Ins provider. She saved your tail, no doubt about that.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you for watching and for your comment. It was a scary time and we are happy of the outcome...that Eric is healthy and still here. We would have totally went bankrupt if we were in the states. Thanks for the patient advocate compliment...people sometimes forget about that...so thanks again. Happy New Year and so sorry for the delay in responding.

[@lisathomas1996]

So happy you're ok! Will definitely keep watching and we may be in Ecuador before you get back there!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much for your support. Sorry about the delay in my response, getting situated before the holidays was a hard transition but we're finally situated and are full steam ahead on getting back to Cuenca. I hope you had a wonderful Holiday and here's to many many blessings for the New Year. See you soon.

[@bespokevocals]

Hey my friends, so sorry that this has happened, but very glad you’re on the mend. It’s always great to have a loving and supportive partner by your side; Sandy’s a keeper. ❤️ Take care of yourselves. I look forward to seeing where your next adventure leads you.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so very much.

[@chiefenumclaw7960]

Idaho is a beautiful state, hope you enjoy your time back in the States. God Bless, Fam!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. God Bless. ❤❤❤

[@Judd237]

I'm sorry to hear about all you went through, but so glad you had a happy ending. Godspeed your full recovery, both physically and financially. Keep in touch!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. Happy endings are the best aren't they. Happy Holidays. I'm not sure who this is but I will definitely keep in touch.

[@kimhazlewood334]

Glad that you got through this ordeal but sad to hear you are leaving Cuenca. I learned a lot about the city from your channel. Blessings to both of you✌🏾

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you. We're very happy Eric is fully recovered. Thank you so much for your support. We can't wait to get back to Cuenca. Happy New Year ❤

[@charhall7702]

One evening in the ER here for broken shoulder cost was around 49,000.

[@ericandsandy]

Crazy isn't it??? I get an MRI once a year (in the states) and they charge the insurance a little over 7,000. Nuts!

[@brinkly97]

Wow oh wow. My friend & I were JUST discussing you guys today as we ventured around looking & visiting spots on your "hidden gems" video. Relieved that you are on the mend, wee bit sad you're leaving EC for a time, but confident you'll plow through this challenge head on & head strong and will emerge ever stronger on the other side. Take the best of care of your lovely selves. And we'll have to throw the biggest damn welcome home party Cuenca has ever seen upon your return.🎉😢

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. We're very sad about leaving but so relieved Eric is healthy again. Yes please...big huge welcome home party when we get back. That would be so much fun!

[@thegreatzaza9293]

*sigh* I just wanted to say that I miss you guys a lot and you were a regularly watched channel for me. I hope you're doing well and are fully back to health.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. Eric's health is back to 100% and we're trying very hard to get back to Ecuador asap. Thank you for your support.. hope to see you soon. Have a beautiful day

[@ExpatGringo]

Yikes! So sorry for your pain and costs. Cuenca will miss you until you get back. Just do what you have to do to feel comfortable!Glad you are on the mend! Safe travels!❤

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much Jack. When we get back we're going to get some chocolate cake and coffee. Sad we didn't do that sooner. Happy Holidays friend..see you when we get back

[@kellierulla1735]

So happy to hear all turned out well for you!! You will reach your goal in no time. Just a bump in the road!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you. Yes, just a small bump...we can't wait to get back. Happy New Year.

[@BarbaraPepp]

BUY ERIC and SANDY CUP OF COFFEE ....see below

[@retiredpoppi1]

We are so glad that you are healthy now. But what a costly adventure. We live in Cuenca and have IESS, but have always paid out of pocket. We usually go to Santa Inez. What hospital did you use?

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you very much. Yes it was...but we are fine with the outcome. Eric is fully recovered. We were at Hospital Del Rio. We can't wait to be back in Cuenca. Thank you for your support, we appreciate it very much. Happy New Year and hope to see you soon.

[@prisonlifer410]

Was in Cuenca last week and met sandy. Thoughts and prayers for you guys. You were a major reason why we went down to explore it for our future. Thank you for the information and will definitely see you down there soon !

[@ericandsandy]

Hey 👋.. It was so nice meeting you and your wife. Thank you so much for your support. We appreciate it so much. We are finally situated after the holidays and working as much as possible to get back to Cuenca ASAP. We hope your holidays were filled with love, laughter and joy. Here's to many many blessings for your New Year . Hope to see you soon. Thanks again.

[@johnneycoon7808]

So sorry to hear all that you went through with your medical issues. That has to be particularly stressful when you are in another country and without medical insurance. I’m so happy to hear that you are now ok but sorry to hear that you will be moving back to the states but I understand the financial hit and the need to save up funds again. Happy to hear that you will be back again. We will be moved there by the time you get back. We have Confiamed through Madys Insurance as well. We have had it for one year and got it right before we got our residency visa but we haven’t used it yet because we haven’t moved yet. We were wondering why you hadn’t had a new video and we’re definitely missing them. Love your channel and you both seem super nice. Love all the info that you have provided, especially vegan related info. We should be there by March and hope to meet you when you return. Good luck with everything and have a great time with your family! I’ll miss your Cuenca videos.

[@ericandsandy]

It was so scary!! But I'm so happy that he's ok and doing so much better. We will see you soon. Happy holidays. Thank you for all of your support...we appreciate it so much. Hopefully I will see you in March

[@johnneycoon7808]

@@ericandsandy Good luck with everything and safe travels. We’ll definitely be looking forward to meeting you two. Happy holidays with your family and I’ll be on the lookout for any new videos. Take care!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. Happy Holidays to you and your family. I will stay in contact ..I will be back in Cuenca in March for a visit. We need to go get lunch when I get there

[@jessiesheldon-huffey1824]

Thank you for sharing your experience and Welcome back to North Idaho! We hope to see you in Ecuador sometime soon, hey we might even end up moving there around the same time.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you ...sorry for the delay in responding. Are you in Idaho? We can't wait to get back..we miss Ecuador so much. Happy New Year

[@jessiesheldon-huffey1824]

​​@@ericandsandywe are landing in Spokane now. We were able to spend 3 weeks in ecuador, rented a car and drove all over the place so we got a great feel for the country. Favorite city was Cuenca we are really torn between making either vilcabamba or ayampe our home.

[@ericandsandy]

The countryside is so beautiful. That is going to be a hard decision. But either way a good one.

[@fluffy5534]

You look healthy. Similar hospital stay in the U.S. with all the specialists would cost you over $89,000. Please make sure and continue paying for your Confiamed insurance without interruption.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you. The doctor told Eric if he wasn't as healthy as he was he wouldn't have made it. We are very very fortunate and blessed that he is still here with us. We agree with the insurance..thank you for your support . We appreciate it very much

[@bjwilson669]

Wow. I actually started to tear up at the end of this. We can all see how much you love Cuenca and I can’t imagine having to leave a place that you love sooooo much. I’m so sorry you guys have to move back here. I like that y’all are staying as positive as possible. Safe travels to both of you and I look forward to the new chapter. I love you guys. Many hugs being sent your way.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much for all your kind words and all of your support. We made it safe and sound back to Idaho. New videos will be out the beginning of the new year. Sending lots of love and big hugs ...hugs are the best. Happiest Holidays to you and your family

[@SophisticatedBob]

Glad to hear you are ok. What a blessing to have each other during the ordeal. At least you're on the mend now, and the future will look bright again soon. Stay strong you two..ya'll take care.

[@ericandsandy]

Yes! Thank you! It is a huge blessing. Just a little hiccup..we will be back as soon as we can. Thank you for the kind words and all of the support. Happy Holidays 😊 ❤

[@amsterdambear610]

Wow, what a horrible experience! I’m glad that you’re back to normal with your health though. I’ve got IESS health care coverage for 79 a month with absolutely no deductibles. Some people say it’s not the best but at least you don’t go into debt afterwards. Private healthcare is just like in the states with all the restrictions and waiting periods. In other words totally for profit. Hope you guys come back like you say. In the mean time all the best. You’re both very nice and spontaneous.

[@jessiesheldon-huffey1824]

I was thinking along the same lines and plan to get IESS, I assume I would have to obtain my residency ViSA first though.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. Eric is fully recovered and we are so happy about that. The Dr told us if he wasn't as healthy as he was he wouldn't have made it. That was such a scary situation. We're finally settled here and are working hard to get back to Cuenca. We still need to get lunch at Good Affinity. Thank you for the information on IESS. Here's to many blessings for your New Year. See you soon

[@amsterdambear610]

@@ericandsandy When you come back to “heaven” we’ll do lunch at Good Affinity. Happy New Year to you too. 🥳

[@ericandsandy]

Yes... I will let you know when we're on our way back.

[@angelaseperghan9539]

Love your positive attitudes! So glad you're doing better. You'll be back in Cuenca before you know it! I look forward to your videos. Happy Holidays to you both ❤

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much ❤ We're dreaming of the day we get back...we can't wait. Missing cuenca. Thank you again ..Happy New Year

[@antonioescobar1335]

I am sory guys. Glad to hear You are better. We like your videos God bless You dear friends. My favorite expat channel comeback soon. Blessings and blessings

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. This means so much to us. Thank you for all of your support and we can't wait to get back. Feliz Navidad my friend.

[@deborahvillano4104]

I'm glad you are feeling better. Great tip about getting health insurance right away. Safe travels to you both and look forward to more videos.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you very much. Sorry for the delay in the response...holidays and finally got settled. Hope you had a fantastic holiday. See you soon and thanks again for all of your support.

[@ParisianThinker]

Does the insurance cover retirees over 80?

[@ericandsandy]

Yes I'm pretty sure they would. The premiums are based on age. Feel free to message Maddy or her team. They are very helpful. Have a great day 😀

[@ChrisVoncannon-tq1ix]

Just found your channel and hate to hear about your health issues. Sometimes life throws us curve balls , but sounds like y'all have made the best decision for yourselves. Good luck to you both back in the States! Cuenca's not going anywhere so it will be waiting for your return in the future! 😊

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you again for all of your kind words. We can't wait to get back to Cuenca. Let us know how you liked Loja.

[@sweetart9905]

Hello! We're so sorry to hear about your health plight. We've heard from other expats in Ecuador that public and private health insurance is inexpensive and provides expansive coverage, and that the doctors are excellent. It's a bummer you have to come back to the U.S.! We watched for you two while we traversed Cuenca 10/30-11/24, since you seem to get around. We had a fantastic trip and plan to return next year. Maybe we'll see in Cuenca next November?! Take care! Happy Holidays!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you...yep..it's a little bump in the road, but things happen for a reason. We are looking forward to getting back to Cuenca. Thanks again for watching we appreciate it very much. Sorry for the delay in response.

[@itravelers]

Sorry to hear about your medical experience but glad to hear you’re on the rebound. Really sorry that you have to leave Cuenca but sounds like you’ll be back soon. Happy Thanksgiving and Merry Christmas. Looking forward to your 2024 videos. 😊

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you very much. Eric is fully recovered and we are so thankful. Sorry for the late response. We are finally settled ..took awhile after the holidays. We are working full steam ahead to get back to Cuenca ASAP. We hope your holidays were full of love , laughter and joy. Many blessings for the New Year.

[@beatricebraswell4677]

I'm so sorry to see that you're leaving Ecuador. I am grateful for your message of the importance of having medical insurance here. The same thing happened to us in January and it caused so much financial hardship. I hope you both keep us updated. Peace and blessings.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much for your kind words. We will be back as soon as possible. Insurance is a key factor to have. I'm sorry you had to go through something similar. Happy New Year and hope to see you soon

[@janhertzberg1797]

Must have been hard emotionally to make this video. Leaving Ecuador is hard but you’ve got the right attitude…am confident that you’ll be back. Yes, do keep up the channel…tell us about your experiences in Idaho. Best of luck always.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. It was very hard to come to the decision to leave. But Eric is fully recovered and we're situated here in Idaho, finally and working hard to get back to Cuenca as fast as we can. Thank you again for all of your support. We will have a video coming in the near future. Happy New Year

[@celestecarrera2963]

In sickness and in health that's what is all about..It would have been way more in the USA....

[@ericandsandy]

It sure would have ... probably over 100G. It was a scary situation..I wouldn't leave him ever.

[@MSWcryptoworker]

Why didn’t they give you any pain killers??

[@ericandsandy]

I would assume because at the time of crisis discomfort wasn't the issue. Getting the infection under control and my fever to come down was.

[@robertcsmith7773]

Dear Eric & Sandy, I'm so sorry you had to endure this, but so happy you have each other. Fortunately you are young and will recover well. You both have been such an inspiration in my decision to visit Ecuador soon. Your videos have been a great help and your kindness in responding to comments and questions has been so encouraging. Of course I am bummed that I won't be able to take you out for that famous chocolate cake when I make my first visit in February:( I will continue to watch your channel and pray for your full recovery (physically & financially). Now's the time to take care of YOU! I truly hope we meet in Cuenca some day before too long. All the best to you both, Bob

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you Bob for all the kind words. Sorry for such a delay in my response. Trying to get situated and going through the holidays was a little chaotic. We are settled in, Eric is fully recovered and we are working as fast as we can to be back in Cuenca. We will see you soon and please go to Taita and enjoy that chocolate cake in February. Safe travels and have a great time in Cuenca. Happy New Year Bob.

[@whacked00]

Looking forward to Eric and Sandy 2.0!

[@spark_6710]

WOW !!! What a gorgeous doggie !!! 😍 💘💜🥁🐉🎤🎶💕💞

[@prieten49]

Glad to hear you're over that kidney stone problem. I think your body was trying to reject that internal catheter. As far as going back to the USA, you gotta do what you gotta do. I've enjoyed your take on Cuenca and Ecuador and will continue to follow your channel.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much for your support. We appreciate it very much. We are so glad that Eric is fully recovered. We're working hard to get back to Cuenca ASAP. Thank you again for everything. Happy New Year

[@prieten49]

@@ericandsandy Happy New Year to you too! I'm not usually one to give advice, but you might try avoiding vegetables with oxalic acid/oxalase. Red beets, swiss chard, spinach, black beans, almonds, raspberries are some oxalic rich foods that can lead to kidney stones. Broccoli is safe!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much for that advice. I've got it down in paper now. Thanks again 😊❤

[@BarbaraPepp]

Gosh,,, awkward question to ask--- how much is rent? You like place? Location? Could I consider taking over your lease ? I'm coming down in next month---- really been struggling where to land --- and how tough is it going to be to find place ? Oh my. Will miss you. ( wear a mask when flying. Covid is around).

[@BarbaraPepp]

Ps it's barb. On Android phone... bought for whatsapp....

[@ericandsandy]

Hey Barb. If you have Facebook there is a group called Cuenca Rentals. They post all the apartments there. Plus you can see a lot of the apartments on Gringopost as well

[@BarbaraPepp]

You could leave stuff there, too ..idea....

[@BarbaraPepp]

Hey, (it's bp) hope all is going super ( besides snowy) for you. I'm down for count w covid.....ugh.....nasty. may cause delay beyond 60 days 'allowed'...means fill out massive papers again. Maybe cheaper airfare. Curious your plans...timing... not sure where landing...EC. bringing bathrobe and down comforter. Supposedly summer , EC... but Temps look cold. At least not feet of snow coming here 😀 decided to leave dog at friends, at least until settled. Look forward to hearing from you. Take care. B.

[@sandrafulcher7611]

Hey, Sad to see you are leaving. We are here in Cuenca & sad that your health has been a factor in your future. But we get it! We just moved here after 3 years of exploring the country, & being an expat of 30 years. Hope to hook up & have a drink soon!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. Sorry for the delayed response. We're just so happy Eric has fully recovered. Now we are on the path to getting back as soon as possible. Hope you are well. Happy New Year. Hope to see you soon. Thanks again for the kind words. ❤

[@SuzWarren]

Wow, guys! That’s a lot! I’m so sorry. Here I was thinking y’all were off somewhere having way too much fun. I’m glad you’re feeling better. Hmmm… I’ve never been to Idaho - I was afraid it had too many ultra ultra conservative folks (posse de comitatus) and stayed away. I’m looking forward to hearing what you’re up to besides working your 🫏 off!

[@jessiesheldon-huffey1824]

Yep, there are a ton of us conservative folks up here in Northern Idaho!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. It was the scariest situation I have ever been in. I'm so happy that he is much better. We love the area in Idaho we are in..it's a beautiful place. The weather is perfect for the both of us...we love snow and the summers aren't so hot. I can't handle the heat. Everyone we have met out here are so polite and very friendly. Bonus.. my dad is here too...so I get quality time with him.🥰

[@ParanaSlim52]

Glad to hear you're doing well. Kidney stones are a bee with an itch. I was in El Batan during your hospital stay, I guess that's why I couldn't find you 😁 I've been through most of what you went through with the kidney stones and I feel it's worse than what they say. What hospital were you in? After my last KS episode I started using Chanca Piedra which supposedly originates from the Andean region. Since I started taking it I've not had a twinge YMMV. How far along in the Visa process are you? I was of the understanding that health insurance was a prerequisite for getting a Visa? When do you have to have it, if you know? I only spent 32 days in Cuenca and loved every second, but we're starting our visa process and hope to move in 2024. FWIW your videos were a big help and I tried several of your recommendations, thanks for all of them! Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, and Safe and Prosperous New Year!!! Hope you see y'all in Cuenca.

[@gregorygreenwood882]

I'm going to put my reply with yours since I have some of the same questions! Like everybody else, the big relief is that you are doing well now. Money is money. You hate to spend money you weren't supposed to be spending... but walking away at the end is all that really matters. Anyway, I wondered what hospital you used as well? I've heard different recommendations when I asked around there. And you never mentioned any communication problems... I know you aren't fluent in Spanish... so I guess that means you found a doctor and specialists who were fluent in English? Bad enough to be staying in a hospital in a foreign country... my Spanish is still so bad that I would be in REAL trouble if none of the health care providers spoke at least some English! And yes, I'm also curious how you didn't have insurance if you were getting a visa? Seems like you have been there more than six months... my assumption was that you guys had temporary visas in hand... but if you didn't have insurance, I guess you weren't there yet! Bad timing for sure! And finally... I really had to enjoy the video since Parque El Vergel was "my park" in August. I had an AirBNB on that short dead end road across the street. I walked that park and that road that was behind you literally every day. I miss Cuenca, I miss El Vergel... I miss all the people I met through Circle of Friends. We will be going back for our final exploratory trip next June... plan to find our rental while we are there. And hopefully move there with our dogs in August. Five dogs... it's an adventure! Hope to see you in that park one day! Next summer, anybody sees a Gringo couple walking the parks with three Belgians and two Dachshunds... that's us... come say hi!

[@ericandsandy]

Hi 👋 and thank you. What a scary situation that was. I've never seen Eric in so much pain before. We were in Hospital Del Rio. The doctors all spoke English, we had to use Google translate with all of the nurses. When we got out of the hospital one of our friends told us about Chanca Piedra. We had our Visa..we are in the temporary residency. We will have to start all over when we come back because we will be out of the 90 day time frame to go into permanent residency. We have our cedulas. We went with the investor visa and nothing was asked of health insurance. I would enter with travel insurance so you are covered until you get your Ecuadorian health insurance. I think it depends on the visa you get with the health insurance. But lesson learned..a hard lesson learned. We will always have travel insurance under our belt until everything goes into effect with any health insurance (some health insurance up to 90 days for hospitalization) keep that travel insurance going to cover all bases. We are elated that Eric is so much better but we are very sad we had to leave our new home, our friends and new family that we have fallen head over heels in love with. But we will be back..just a little hiccup. Can't wait to see you all. Thank you again for all of your support we appreciate every bit of it. Have a Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and we will see you soon. 😊😊❤❤❤

[@jdsantibanez]

Too bad you're going back. Besides the private insurance, also get the IESS one.

[@ericandsandy]

Next time back...doubling up. Thanks for the tip

[@jonathanhughes9918]

Yo man... Glad to hear you're ok with the medical situation. It stinks not being able to stay more in touch. Please hit me up when you get back state side. Love you both... Jun

[@ericandsandy]

Thanks Jun!! It was the scariest thing we've ever been through. Sending you and Luna big hugs. Love ya...p.s this is Sandy

[@BarbaraPepp]

Let us all pitch in donate to you,,, see if we can help you......

[@ericandsandy]

Thanks Barb. That means so much. You're so supportive!❤❤❤

[@BarbaraPepp]

Hey, E& S, We all love your videos, as stated, repeatedly.... if you have footage, piece together show and tell videos Ala Cuenca. We'll all love them and learn from them. Maybe even a compilation video on Vegan fare in Cuenca. Thoughts. One couple ( I'd have to look up name), 60's, kept videos rolling for 2, 3 months after they left to go house sit/summer in US. We love you two, love you videos. A thought!!! B.

[@manoffire786]

finally yall are back. stop getting kidney stones old man haha. im thankful youre doing well. every man needs a woman like sandy in his corner. you guys are awesome.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you and thank you for watching. Have a great day

[@mbwahaha]

It's a shame to go back to work, but I'm glad you're okay!!, that's the important thing. As you said, with the right person by your side, the locations is less important. My grandfather (93) had several huge kidney stones last year, he is fine now, he went through IESS but the experience was horrible, shared room, overworked and rude staff, not recommended for expats. IEES patients depend on their families because public hospitals do not give them anything, not even water, toilet paper or any necessary pharmaceutical supplies... We ended up hiring a private nurse to be monitored 24/7. Expats should always take out private medical insurance; Otherwise, they will learn the hard way why Ecuador is a developing country.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much for your support. We have finally gotten situated after the holidays. We are happy that your grandfather is better. Kidney stones are awful. Agree 100% on insurance 👍. We hope your holidays were wonderful and here's to many blessings for you and your family for the New Year

[@jdsantibanez]

Don't take any carbonated drinks ever!

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you

[@ronaldtobey20]

What a disappointment! But the important thing is that you are okay. Keep us posted on your journey, even if that is from the U.S. If I might ask a question; how much proficiency in Spanish is necessary to do well in Cuenca? Take care.

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you very much. Eric is fully recovered and we are working on getting back to Cuenca ASAP. A little bit of Spanish will get you by. But I suggest learning at least conversational. When we were in the hospital the doctors spoke English but the nurses didn't and sometimes Google translate was not very helpful. I'm taking lessons via zoom with Ana Luisa in Cuenca and I can tell you it is very easy to learn when you have a great teacher like her.

[@lvovodessa]

Brazil and Colombia are much better (and cheaper) countries for healthcare than Ecuador. Especially Colombia has good visa options.

[@ericandsandy]

That is what we both have heard from several different people. Thanks for the comment and watching our video. We appreciate it very much

[@wiggy5927]

Good luck in your future endeavors you guys I'll watch when you post .

[@ericandsandy]

Thank you so much. We appreciate your support

[@whacked00]

Thanks!

[@DawnRimmer-p1c]

Hi all, glad you are doing better and so sorry to see you all have to head back to the states. I am sorry to ask, but we are planning to head there as pensioners and I thought IESS or private insurance was mandatory? Your videos have really helped us decide on heading there. Hope to see you guys back soon!