The patient 'I've got my life back'

Harish Raithatha (left), 47, a mechanic from London, went to India last year for a knee replacement: "I started suffering from severe knee pain two years ago and within months could hardly walk. I'm still waiting for an NHS specialist appointment. I went private and had surgery on my left knee, but it got worse. I flew with my wife over to the Shalby Hospital in Ahmedabad last summer. We were picked up from the airport and within hours I'd had a full examination, X-rays and blood tests. The staff spoke English and the facilities were out of this world. The doctor advised against replacement as my knees had 15 years left if I changed my diet, took supplements and stopped drinking. It was meant to cost £4,500 but his honesty meant I paid £1,000 for a two-week admission. I've followed the advice and have got my life back. When I need to, I'll return for the operation."