New to the Forum

Thank you very much. I appreciate all the advice.  That's a good idea to try and get my doctor to send a referral elsewhere as well.

I already had my appointment with my doctor on Monday and he sent the referral to Dr. Farries in Red Deer while I was in his office.  He seems to know the surgeon but I don't expect that to have any pull.  When I see my doctor next, I might get him to give me a referral elsewhere.  I don't really know if I am financially set to go outside the country for surgery.  I am hoping to get an appointment in Alberta and have it covered by health insurance.

My doctor said that I would get a call, maybe in a year, and would be given a questionnaire before an appointment. Can anyone who has Dr. Farries as a surgeon confirm this? I know this process will take time but I am ready and willing to wait in order to have a drastic life changing experience. 

Thank you everyone for your great advice and support.  I wish I found this site a long time ago.