Support John Smedley's Fight Against Brain Cancer

Hi, my name is John Smedley, and I’m humbly asking for your support during the most difficult chapter of my life.

In 2013, I was diagnosed with a brain tumor (tectal glioma). Doctors initially gave me 18 months to live, but I’ve defied those odds for over a decade. Despite my fight, my condition has worsened—bringing daily pain, neurological impairment, and a wave of unpredictable symptoms that have made basic life functions a struggle.

I’ve spent years undergoing treatments:

• Brain surgeries

• Nerve blocks every 4–6 weeks

• Radiofrequency ablations

• Heavy medications for migraines, neuralgia, vertigo, and cognitive issues

• Ongoing care from Barrow Neurological, one of the nation’s leading centers

In July 2023, I collapsed at work from severe pain. That was the moment I knew I couldn’t push through anymore. I left a career I loved as a Television Director at Univision, not by choice—but because I physically couldn’t do it anymore.

That’s when the nightmare with Reliance Standard Life Insurance Company began.

Despite extensive medical evidence and a successful appeal for Short-Term Disability, Reliance wrongfully denied my Long-Term Disability (LTD) claim. The denial forced me into extreme financial hardship. I lost my income. I was forced to sell my home just to survive.

After months of fighting and legal appeals, they finally reinstated my benefits—but even now, they’re using contradictory medical reports to try and undermine my case again. One of their doctors admitted I can’t work. Another claimed I could work full-time, ignoring my brain tumor, my cognitive disorder, and my history of hydrocephalus and neurological trauma. They’re now trying to reduce my disability to a “mental illness” so they can cap my benefits at 24 months—ignoring MRIs, neurosurgery, and physical treatment records. It’s a cruel and calculated game.

This isn’t just about disability. It’s about survival.

I’ve filed complaints with the Department of Labor, SEC, FTC, and CFPB. I’m ready to fight this to the end—but I need help. The legal process is slow, and the cost of living, treatment, and simply staying afloat is more than I can manage alone.

How You Can Help:

• Donations will go toward medical expenses, legal costs, housing, and daily living needs while I continue this fight.

• Sharing this campaign helps raise awareness not just for me—but for everyone facing unfair insurance practices.

I never thought I’d be in this position, but life has left me no choice. If you’ve ever had to fight a system that should’ve protected you, you understand how isolating and exhausting it can be.

From the bottom of my heart—thank you for reading, sharing, and supporting me in this fight for dignity, fairness, and health.

—

John Smedley

Phoenix, AZ

#DisabilityRights #ChronicPainWarrior