Charles Esther
Billy and Akaisha Kaderli retired in their late 30s with a dream — to travel the world together.
Over the past three decades, they have embraced a nomadic lifestyle, exploring new cultures and cuisines while living in low-cost countries.
Their journey was smooth until Akaisha received a life-altering diagnosis: stage three breast cancer.
A Difficult Decision in the Face of Cancer
The diagnosis forced the couple to pause and consider their options.
Should they return to the US to navigate treatment through Medicare Advantage, or continue their journey and seek care abroad?
They chose the latter — opting to pay out-of-pocket for treatment in countries like Mexico, Vietnam, and Thailand.
Billy remained by Akaisha’s side every day, supporting her emotionally and physically through the entire ordeal.
“She was a trooper about it,” he said. “I watched her every night and every morning.”
Why They Avoided the US Healthcare System
Despite being enrolled in Medicare Advantage, the Kaderlis didn’t feel confident about the financial or procedural aspects of getting care in the US.
Stage three breast cancer treatment in America can exceed $100,000.
Even with insurance, many patients face high deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses.
Billy believed their decision saved them both time and money.
He was certain it would have taken much longer to get care through the American system due to bureaucratic delays.
Their Global Treatment Plan and Costs
The couple carefully mapped out a treatment strategy across several countries.
Akaisha received diagnostic testing in Thailand, follow-up exams in Vietnam, surgery and radiation in Mexico, and recovery support in the West Indies.
The entire process cost them $18,807 — a fraction of what they might have spent in the US.
“I wanted to live my life, and so I took the cheapest option,” Akaisha explained.
She emphasised that this wasn’t just about saving money — it was about choosing efficient, compassionate care without sacrificing their lifestyle.
Medical Tourism on the Rise Among Older Americans
The Kaderlis’ experience reflects a growing trend among Americans facing rising healthcare costs.
Millions are now exploring “medical tourism” — travelling to other countries for affordable treatments.
Popular destinations include Mexico, Canada, and the Caribbean.
Whether for cosmetic procedures or life-saving surgeries, patients are finding that international healthcare can be both high-quality and cost-effective.
A Life That Keeps Getting Better
Now in their early 70s, the Kaderlis show no signs of slowing down.
Akaisha has completed her treatment and is recovering well.
They plan to spend the summer in Mexico and Thailand, winter in the Caribbean, and spring in the Mediterranean.
“It just gets better and better,” Akaisha said. “This is the life we were meant to live.”
Final Thoughts
Akaisha and Billy Kaderli’s story is a powerful reminder that with careful planning, it’s possible to live boldly — even in retirement and even during health crises.
Their decision to seek treatment abroad underscores the financial burdens many Americans face at home and highlights the growing appeal of medical tourism.
