Vienna Pedatella was diagnosed with idiopathic scoliosis at age 13. This meant her spine was curved like an S. After waiting more than two years for surgery in Canada’s healthcare system – well beyond the generally recommended six-month timeframe for pediatric spinal surgery – the Pedatellas sought other options.
When the Pedatellas found a surgeon in the United States who could operate within weeks, they applied to Alberta’s Out-of-Country Health Services Program, which is designed to provide healthcare when it is unavailable in Canada, including because of excessive wait times. The committee refused funding. For Vienna’s long term health, her family took her for surgery anyway in August 2025.
Thanks to the surgery, Vienna’s scoliosis was cured. However, her parents were left with a $200,000 bill.
With the help of the CCF and its donors, the Pedatellas have filed for judicial review. Vienna will ask the Court to overturn the decision and reimburse her family for the cost of the surgery. The CCF also seeks a ruling that the province violated Vienna’s rights to life and security of the person as protected by section 7 of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms because of the excessive wait.
Teen’s Years-Long Wait for Spinal Surgery
CCF Launch: August 5, 2026
Jurisdiction: Court of King's Bench of Alberta
Status: Ongoing
Next Key Date: Awaiting hearing date
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