Hello, my name is Ariah, and this is my story.

Three months ago, I was diagnosed with esophageal cancer caused by severe Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). During this process, doctors also discovered a 4 cm hiatal hernia that needs to be repaired.

My journey began in July when I sought help for my worsening acid reflux. It had become so severe that I was sleeping upright in a living-room chair every night. The medication I had been prescribed no longer helped—I was vomiting acid and aspirating it in my sleep to the point where I couldn’t breathe.

My doctor ordered an EGD before moving forward with any treatment. I was told there were two typical options for reflux as severe as mine. The first was a Nissen fundoplication, but I was not a good candidate due to my weight and the high failure rate in patients of my size. The second—and the option my surgeon strongly recommended—was the RYGB gastric bypass, not for weight loss, but because it is the most effective surgical treatment for my level of GERD.

I entered the EGD hoping for answers. Instead, the procedure revealed a hiatal hernia and several concerning areas that required biopsy. Three weeks later, at my follow-up appointment, I learned I had severe GERD, the hiatal hernia, and that one of the biopsies showed Stage 0 esophageal cancer. Thankfully, we caught it very early, and I was able to have it removed with the help of my insurance.

However, my insurance denied coverage for the gastric bypass surgery—despite medical documentation—because they classify it strictly as a weight-loss procedure. We appealed, but the answer was the same. Their policy excludes it regardless of diagnosis or medical necessity.

Determined to move forward, I planned to pay for the surgery myself. I was scheduled for December 5th. Then, the night before, the hospital called to confirm payment in full upfront. I didn’t have the funds, and they would not allow payment plans. My surgery was canceled. This procedure is what I need to return to a normal life and prevent my cancer from ever returning.

I am now fundraising in hopes of receiving this surgery within the next three months.

This condition affects every part of my daily life. I can’t play with my children without getting sick. I can’t lie down flat—not even in bed with my husband—because the acid comes up immediately. Even drinking water can trigger reflux. I have been suffering for far too long, and I am simply trying to reclaim my health and my future.

If you can find it in your heart to help, I would be forever grateful.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story.

— Ariah