Cover Surgery Cost for Parathyroid Tumor

Hi Everyone,

Last year I went to see the GP as I had been feeling exhausted, tired, and forgetful, with joint pain and muscle weakness. Fast forward over a year of blood test after blood test, I got the diagnosis of Primary Hyperparathyroidism (PHPT). PHPT is a condition where there is an adenoma (a benign tumor) on at least one of my 4 Parathyroid Glands. The 4 Parathyroids (different from the bog-standard Thyroids) help to regulate blood calcium by secreting Parathyroid Hormone (PTH). It's located right on top of the trachea near the vocal nerve. When the PTs are not working right, blood calcium increases, causing brittle bones, exhaustion, severe depression, anxiety, forgetfulness, confusion, intense brain fog, slurring my words, and fatigue so extreme it can look like blackouts.

If left untreated, my condition is fatal.

My insurer (AXA Health) has refused to cover the costs of the critical surgery, stating that my 'pre-existing symptom' of 'fatigue' was investigated four days before I was formally enrolled on their policy. Their claim is not wholly accurate, and I have told them otherwise. A symptom is not a condition, and 'fatigue' can be caused something as simple as a bad night's sleep. However, they apparently work by 'Pre-existing symptoms' not 'conditions'. I appealed their decision to their underwriter, and they have still refused to cover it. I've filed a complaint but to no avail. I've consulted a private Endocrine Surgeon at my own cost, who has confirmed my surgery is essential and must be done as soon as possible. The NHS, on the other hand, is dragging its feet to do anything about it, citing that "[I] don't need surgery."

My symptoms are getting worse, and they are at the point where I only have a few hours during the day where I can work before I am catatonic for the rest of the day. Given that I work as an actor and voice actor, my particular surgery must be done with additional equipment to ensure the safety of my vocal nerve and trachea. The use of the equipment is very specialist and costly.

My condition has affected my work, my income, my relationships, and nearly every aspect of my life for over a year. I cannot cover the cost of the surgery on my own, and I do not know when (if at all) the NHS might do anything about it. I am getting worse by the day, and I currently cannot financially afford to have the surgery done. Any donations you might be able to give would be forever appreciated. Thank you.