Hello, my name is Marianne Rodriguez, and I am raising funds for our sweet daughter, Sara Mardock.

Sara is in need of bilateral jaw surgery to open her airway, which is severely constricted and causing multiple medical issues. What first appeared to be poor posture as a child was later believed to be TMJ. Five years ago, Sara met with a dental specialist who discovered that her airway was extremely constricted.

Over the years, Sara’s body has compensated by holding her head forward in order to get enough oxygen. This posture has placed extra strain on her neck, causing pain and tension in her shoulders, along with sharp pains in her jaw and head.

Over the past five years, Sara has undergone multiple sleep studies. These studies showed RERA-dominant obstructive sleep apnea that cannot be treated with CPAP. As a result, Sara is awakened approximately 17 times per hour, preventing her from entering deep, restful sleep.

After consultations with a dental specialist, an oral and facial surgeon, and an orthodontist, it has been confirmed that this is a structural issue. Because of that, the only option to open her airway is surgery. The procedure will involve cutting both the upper and lower jaw, moving them forward, and using plates to reattach them. This will allow Sara’s airway to open and begin the process of healing. After surgery, she will also begin chiropractic care to help retrain her spine to hold her head in the correct position. This should also help relieve her constant shoulder and jaw pain.

Sara began the journey toward surgery in November 2024 by getting braces to prepare her teeth and jaw for the procedure. Surgery was originally planned for the summer of 2026, so Sara and the surgeon’s office submitted a preauthorization request to insurance. Unfortunately, insurance denied the surgery. In the denial letter, they acknowledged that the surgery is medically necessary, but denied coverage because the procedure relates to the teeth, face, or jaw.

The surgeon’s office immediately put together a team of surgeons and experts to appeal the denial, emphasizing that this is a structural airway issue and that surgery is the only option. After speaking with the staff at the surgeon’s office, Sara learned that they also faced denial after denial. At this point, the only option is to move forward with the surgery as scheduled in July.

The cost of the surgeon’s fees and hospital fees is far beyond what Sara and her family can afford ($37,000 if cash pay), but without this surgery, the issue will continue to worsen.

Sara is a devoted mom, daughter, and wife, known for her love for others, her family, and Jesus. She has always been the first person to step up when someone else is in need, whether helping a friend, supporting a family member, or simply offering a listening ear. Her love and care for others know no bounds.

Sara has a remarkably fun and sweet spirit that brings joy wherever she goes. Even though this situation has been incredibly frustrating, she continues to show immense strength, patience, and determination.

Any contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference in helping Sara overcome this hurdle. All funds raised will go directly toward her surgery and hospital fees.

Thank you for considering a donation and for sharing Sara’s story. Above all else, we ask for your prayers because we know God can make a way!