In the Czech and Slovak lands, we have a unique tradition this time of year colloquially termed ‘péefko.’ Its proper name is the French-derived pour féliciter (‘felicitations’)—PF, for short—and it might best be compared to the ubiquitous Christmas and New Year’s cards sent out in other lands to friends and loved ones.
Indeed, it may come in the form of a card itself or, in more recent times, an email. Usually, there is photo to accompany it. But, whatever form the PF may take, the sentiments remain the same—to wish the very best in the life of the recipient, now and in the year to come.
Today, we wish you just that and more—prosperity, happiness, fulfilment, love, and every other good thing. More than this, we thank you for your for your audience, for your time, and, to those of you whom we’ve been blessed to help, we thank you for placing your trust in us and our services.
So, consider this our péefko to you and your family. Happy Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! Happy New Year! Happy anything else we’ve left out!
Of course, this is a newsletter, after all, so if you’re still craving some of the more practical information we normally dispense—particularly, if you’re tired of fighting obesity in a season when food is all too readily available and fluctuations in weight all too common—read on. In either case, we’ll see you in the new year!
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Not everyone is comfortable going under the knife in order to alleviate their obesity struggles. Happily, the knife is not required. The gastric balloon procedure is a viable alternative to bariatric surgery with well-documented results. Nor is it complicated: a deflated silicone balloon is placed in the stomach endoscopically and filled with a solution to occupy more space, thereby limiting total potential food intake and, typically, leading to weight loss. The balloon remains for six to 12 months—depending on the type—after which it is removed, again by endoscope. As with any other medical procedure, there are some potential risks, which your doctor should discuss with you before proceeding. Learn more.
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‘When I decided to look into having a gastric balloon, I began by searching the internet. I looked at the criteria and the cost in the UK. Quickly dismissing this as an unviable option, I looked at what was available abroad. Medical Travel came up in the searches and everything was simple from there. The website is clear and gives a good indication of the procedures available and their approximate cost. It was good to be able to decide on affordability before having to contact the company.
Following my initial expression of interest, I was contacted by Jessica. Jessica literally took care of everything. This wasn't easy for her because I had decided to have two procedures while in Prague. She was able to negotiate dates and prices and work out, with the doctors, the safest and most convenient times to have each procedure during my time-frame.
Jessica kept in touch with me regularly to ensure that she was meeting my needs and that everything was on track. Nearer the time to travel, she again ensured that we were in contact and that I had all of the information necessary to put my mind at ease.
It was necessary to travel alone and this is where I appreciated Jessica the most. Picking me up to take me to the clinics and explaining carefully what would happen and being with me while all of the pre-operative tests and examinations took place was simply amazing. I would have, undoubtedly, felt afraid without her being with me. Also knowing that I could contact her at any time, put my mind at rest. Jessica checked in with me when I arrived in Prague; following my first procedure; following my second procedure and again on my return home. This made me feel very safe and looked after. I know that this is Jessica's job, but I felt genuinely cared about.
While at the Forme Clinic, I mentioned that I'd also be interested in a facelift. Jessica was able to negotiate a consultation with the surgeon while I was undergoing my other pre-op tests. I look forward to seeing Jessica again in five or six months time when I return to have my balloon out and my facelift. She is a superstar.’
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