iOS 5 and 5.0.1 Upgrade Troubleshooting
It is relatively easy to upgrade the iOS. All you need is your computer and the most recent version of iTunes.
With the above, connect the iPad to the computer and open iTunes. Then, (1) do a backup of your iPad, (2) and then press "Restore" (it's on the main Summary tab in iTunes). Then, iTunes will do its magic and when it's done, you will be prompted to "restore,from backup."
That will be it. You will then be on the most current iOS (5.1.1 as of this writing). Good luck and let us know how you get on.
Marilyn