Support Ben’s Fight Against Chronic Pain

Hi, I’m Ellen, and I’m reaching out with a heavy heart. My husband, Ben, is not just my best friend—he’s an incredible athlete, a passionate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor, and the kind of person who brings energy and strength to everyone around him. But right now, he’s in constant pain.

Ben has been diagnosed with Degenerative Disc Disease, a condition that has made it nearly impossible for him to continue doing what he loves. The pain is relentless, and despite seeing multiple doctors, we’ve been told that his only options are a spinal fusion or disc replacement—procedures that come with serious risks and no guarantee of lasting relief.

I refused to accept that this was the end of his career, his passion, and his ability to live pain-free. I have spent countless nights searching for alternatives, desperate to find a way to help him. And I finally have.

A doctor named Kevin Pauza has pioneered a procedure called Discseel, which uses a surgical glue called Fibrin to seal the damaged discs. This not only stops the fluid from leaking onto his nerves—causing excruciating pain—but can actually promote healing. This could give Ben his life back.

The problem is this procedure costs $18,100, and insurance won’t cover it. We’ve tried to secure financing, but we’ve only been approved for $2,000—nowhere near enough. So I’m humbly asking for help.

If you can donate, share, or even just spread the word, it would mean everything to us. Ben has given so much to his students, his community, and the sport he loves. Now, I want to give him back the chance to do what he was born to do—teach, train, and live without pain.

Anything helps. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. ♥️

— Ellen