Help Fernando Heal From Double Hip Surgery and Get His Life Back

This is the story of Fernando Hernandez Bautista, a 19-year-old first-generation college student and dedicated soccer player at Lake Erie College.

Fernando was born with Femoroacetabular Impingement (FAI) in both hips. Over time, the condition caused tears in the labrum of both hips, leaving him in constant pain. For years, he fought through it, training, competing, and studying as if nothing was wrong. About a year ago, the pain grew unbearable. What began as discomfort has now taken over his daily life, making even the simplest things like getting out of bed, walking across campus, or sitting through class a struggle.

A Dreamer and a Fighter

Soccer has always been Fernando’s passion. He has spent 12 years training and competing, developing his game with Coerver Coaching, playing in the MLS Next Cup, earning selection for the Olympic Development Program (ODP), and now playing college soccer at Lake Erie College.

Beyond athletics, Fernando has pursued academics with the same drive. As a Biology major, he dreams of one day becoming a pediatric surgeon, dedicated to helping children live healthy, full lives.

The Medical Reality

On September 26th, Fernando was scheduled for hip surgery with labral repair on his right hip, the first of two major surgeries he will need since both hips have FAI and torn labrums.

The original hospital bill was $102,751.75. After what they called a “discount,” Fernando was told he would still need to pay $51,375.84 upfront before the surgery could happen.

Because his insurance denied coverage and he could not pay this amount, the hospital canceled the surgery.

And it will not stop with one operation. Since both hips need surgery, the total costs are over $100,000 just for the two procedures ($51,375.84 per hip), not including the months of physical therapy after each surgery that will add thousands more.

Life Put on Hold

This devastating situation forced Fernando to put his life on pause. He had no choice but to unenroll from college for a semester, uncertain when or if he can return. His dream of continuing both his education and his soccer career is now on hold, not because of lack of effort or willpower, but because of the overwhelming medical costs standing in his way.

Why Fernando Needs Your Help

Fernando has always fought through adversity, but this battle is too big to face alone. With your support, you will help cover:

$51,375.84 upfront for his first surgery

Another $51,375.84 for his second surgery

Physical therapy expenses after both operations

Your generosity will:

⚽ Give him the opportunity to return to the soccer field without pain

Allow him to go back to college and pursue his dream of becoming a pediatric surgeon

Help a young athlete and first-generation student overcome an impossible financial barrier

Fernando’s resilience has carried him through every challenge, but now he needs a team behind him. With your help, through donations and sharing his story, he can get the surgeries he needs, recover fully, and take back the future that was put on hold.

Thank you for helping Fernando fight for his health, his education, and his dream.