Rob’s health journey began in 2019 when he was diagnosed with Barrett's Esophagus—a condition where the tissue lining the esophagus changes due to chronic acid reflux (GERD), increasing the risk for esophageal cancer. In September 2020, Rob underwent a Nissen Fundoplication, a surgery for severe GERD and hiatal hernias, which helped for a couple of years. Then, in July 2022, Rob had a freak accident at work and rolled his ankle very badly. Despite therapy and hard work to regain function, he developed Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). In 2023, Rob received an injection for pain and weakness in his right ankle, but unfortunately, the feeling never fully returned, leaving him with ongoing weakness, numbness, and tingling. By mid-2023, Rob started experiencing more symptoms with his stomach and acid reflux, feeling unwell upon waking and having the same symptoms as before his 2020 surgery. He continued to see multiple doctors and went to many appointments, but kept getting deferred, with doctors saying his symptoms were not due to his stomach wrap or hiatal hernia. This went on into 2024 with no answers, ER visits due to abdominal pain and vomiting.

Rob and Amanda have been through so much together, and their journey over the past year has been especially challenging. Rob was overjoyed to be expecting his first child with Amanda in August 2024, already a loving stepdad to Amanda’s son, AJ. His excitement for their growing family was clear to everyone who knew him. But as they prepared for this new chapter, Rob’s health took a turn for the worse.

In April 2025, Rob learned that his previous Nissen stomach wrap had come undone, causing his stomach to move up into his chest when he lay down. He began working with a new care team and was referred to a specialist. Due to his medical history and ongoing issues, they recommended a bariatric bypass with hiatal hernia repair. Rob went through all the necessary appointments, determined to get better for his family. On October 24th, 2025, he underwent a partial gastrectomy with Roux-en-Y reconstruction, a recurrent hiatal hernia repair, and a Nissen takedown. He had already lost weight before surgery and continued to lose more afterward, adjusting to new routines and challenges.

By December 2025, Rob returned to work but soon began struggling to keep food down. Despite following all medical advice, his symptoms worsened. On January 6th, 2026, his care team took him off work to investigate further. Tests pointed to gallbladder issues, and on January 8th, Rob was so weak he needed an ambulance to the hospital. He was severely dehydrated, and after several tests, doctors found his gallbladder was only functioning at 10% and discovered five ulcers in his stomach. He was started on new medications and discharged on January 11th, but his struggles continued. Rob now has gallbladder surgery scheduled for February 4th, but he still can’t eat much or tolerate his medications. Since October, he has lost 73 pounds, and his employment is now at risk due to his ongoing health problems.

Amanda is carrying the weight of the family’s finances while caring for their 17-month-old daughter and her 11-year-old son. The medical bills and daily expenses are overwhelming, and they need help to get through this incredibly difficult time. If you are able to, please donate to help with their daily expenses and continued medical bills. Every bit of support brings hope and comfort to this family as they face these challenges together.