164. Tips for Traveling Abroad for Excision Surgery

Amy speaks to Orla O’Connor from Ireland and Jennifer Todd from Canada about traveling abroad for excision surgery. They share about: —what they think is most important to keep in mind when going to another country to medical care —their process for choosing a surgeon —logistics such as post op care and flying home after the surgery 🎤WHO IS ORLA AND JEN?🎤 Orla O’Connor is a fourth-year BSc Public Health Sciences student who runs a WhatsApp peer-support group that helps patients understand their options and feel less alone. Drawing on public-health training and lived community experience, Orla focuses on evidence-based information, practical checklists, and patient advocacy—especially for those considering diagnostic evaluation or surgery abroad. She signposts trusted clinical guidelines and Irish health-system pathways, helps members prepare referrals and reimbursement paperwork under the Cross-Border Directive, and promotes informed, shared decision-making with qualified specialists. Jennifer Todd is a mom, wife and Registered Nurse navigating life post endometriosis excision, hysterectomy, oophrectomy and bowel resection for stage 4 deep infiltrating endometriosis and severe adenomysosis. She has had two surgeries, one in Canada with an excision specialist and one in Mexico with an excision specialist and General surgeon. Traveling for surgery was intimidating but well worth it. Jennifer strongly believes patients are their own best advocates and hopes to encourage patients to trust themselves and push for the help they deserve.  ☀️CONNECT WITH ORLA☀️ Instagram Orla @orlacorkendowarrior  ☀️CONNECT WITH AMY☀️ Instagram @in16yearsofendo Website: www.insixteenyears.com Like my show? Please rate it or leave a review! Support me by buying me a coffee: https://ko-fi.com/insixteenyears  ⚠️DISCLAIMER⚠️ The information on my platforms is educational information only and not medical advice. Always check with your qualified medical professional before making any changes to your treatment plan. Keep in mind that while I strive to share evidenced-based information, this doesn’t always mean that my information is accurate or complete. Read my full disclaimer here: https://insixteenyears.com/disclaimer/