Mackenzie's Fight for a Pain-Free Future

In August 2020, Mackenzie’s life changed. While working as a concrete finisher, he suffered a serious back injury that has left him in constant, debilitating pain. Over the past five years, he has endured countless appointments, therapies, procedures, and two invasive surgeries—yet has found little to no relief. Time and again, he was told that his imaging was normal, and at times that the pain might even be in his head. The emotional and physical toll has been devastating.

But Mackenzie never gave up.

After years of unanswered questions, he took matters into his own hands. At his own expense, he sought out specialists in the United States—experts who, after thorough consultations and imaging reviews, confirmed what he had long suspected: Bertolotti’s Syndrome, a rare and often overlooked spinal condition that typically only becomes symptomatic after a triggering injury. This was a breakthrough—but it came after years of suffering, uncertainty, and feeling dismissed.

Now, due to the progression of his condition and limited treatment options available to him to date, Mackenzie’s spine has deteriorated significantly. He is now living with severe spinal damage, including a collapsed disc, and requires complex revision surgery and disc replacement to restore his mobility, dignity, and quality of life.

After Mackenzie’s two failed surgeries, a Saskatchewan surgeon concluded that all appropriate treatment options available in Canada had been exhausted. Mackenzie chose to take a chance and book surgery with a surgeon experienced in treating Bertolotti's Syndrome. This potentially life-changing surgery, is scheduled for June 2025 in Virginia, and it represents Mackenzie’s best—and possibly only—chance at meaningful recovery.

Because this procedure is being done outside of Canada, none of the associated costs are covered by provincial healthcare. Mackenzie is facing surgery costs of $75,000–$80,000 USD, with an additional $3,100 USD for travel and hotel expenses during a 10-day recovery period. Pre-surgical testing and related medical expenses will also be fully out-of-pocket. These costs do not include travel or accommodations for his fiancée, Jessie, and their two young daughters, who hope to be by his side as he recovers.

Unfortunately, since booking the surgery Mackenzie received unexpected news-- an increase of approximately $15,000 USD in the estimated cost of his surgery. This surge in expense has placed an even greater financial burden on a family already doing everything possible to make this surgery a reality. Understandably, Mackenzie is now questioning whether he can afford to move forward with the surgery at all and is contemplating cancelling. After fighting for years just to find answers, it's heartbreaking to think that the cost alone might stand between him and the chance to live without pain.

Government funding was requested—but here’s the challenge. To access out-of-country medical funding in Canada, a Canadian specialist must complete and submit formal documentation to the provincial Ministry of Health. Discussions to begin the out-of-country funding paperwork did start—but the process was unexpectedly halted due to circumstances beyond Mackenzie’s control. Unfortunately, without a Canadian physician’s formal submission, the application could not proceed. This barrier has left Mackenzie with no choice but to privately fund a surgery that could give him his life back.

Throughout this time, Mackenzie has done everything he can to seek answers and find relief. And now, we’re asking for something Mackenzie himself has never been comfortable asking for: help.

If you know Mackenzie, you know the kind of man he is. A devoted partner. A loving father. A hard worker with a quiet resilience and a heart of gold. He is the first to offer help when someone else is in need—and he never imagined life would bring him to this place. But no one should have to live in constant pain when a real solution exists.

We’re reaching out to our community to stand with Mackenzie and help give him a second chance at life. If you're able, please consider donating or sharing Mackenzie’s story. Every contribution—no matter the size—and every share helps bring him one step closer to healing.

On behalf of our entire family, thank you for your time, your kindness, and your support.