Oh God, not United. I had a rather nasty blowout with them last year while flying domestically, and would rather gnaw off both legs and swim than give them any money at all.

But that gives me an idea...maybe some other airlines have similar deals. I think I'll call a couple directly and ask. Thanks so much for the advice.

I'm of the opinion that if this hasn't killed me yet, then an 18 hour flight post surgery sure ain't gonna get me. If I can't find some good way to get the airlines to sell me an upgrade for the amount of money I have, then I'll fly coach and be happy for the chance at all. I've been waiting on this for several years, and I am absolutely thrilled to be going. I'm going to manage a few days early and hope to bring pictures of Belgium back to show off here. Incidentally (not speaking of Belgium at all) I want them to videotape the surgery, but I *know* nobody but me wants to see that! (I can't help it; when else am I going to get a good look at my innards?)