Hi, my name is Cheryl and I'm fundraising for my incredibly sweet, smart, amazing son Dominick, who just turned 18.

Dominick weighs 400 pounds and desperately needs Bariatric surgery to lose weight. He has numerous health conditions resulting from his weight, including DIabetes, High Blood Pressure, fatty liver disease, and more. He also has Autism and severe anxiety.

His weight is not Dominick's fault. Because of severe asthma, he has been on steroids most of his life. He also takes mood stabilizers and other medications that cause weight gain. He has tried several diets and walks what he can. However, he must use a mobility scooter to go more than a block. He just can't walk it. He even has to use a scooter for his last year of high school.

My health insurance, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, will not cover this surgery for dependents. I have appealed on different levels, but it is not a covered service.

Please help my son. We have had a series of difficult situations, and I, unfortunately, do not have the money to cover the surgery, estimated at $15,000-$25,000. My son is a miracle. I had him at 42 years old. His father (my husband) passed away 2.5 years ago as a result of a surgeon's mistake. Dominick and I only have each other.

I have been a helper my entire life and hate asking for help. In June, I had to retire from my job to care for Dominick during the summer as he had no other options. God bless you for reading my request, and any help will be appreciated. Thank you.