Hi everyone,

My name is Sam Babbie. I’m a 44-year-old husband and father of three, and I’ve been living with chronic health conditions for most of my life.

At 16, I was diagnosed with polycystic kidney disease. At 20, in what should have been the prime of my life, I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. Shortly after that diagnosis, I spent nearly a month in the hospital and was discharged on more than 18 different medications. I felt overwhelmed and helpless. The years that followed were filled with pain, uncertainty, and the constant stress of trying to manage my health while figuring out how to provide for myself and, eventually, my family.

After several years, I was finally approved for disability benefits and health insurance. I’ve been on disability for over 20 years. Recently, I decided to try returning to work so I could better provide for my family and build something more stable for our future. Unfortunately, after only three weeks of training, I was informed that my benefits would be drastically reduced and my health coverage would change significantly.

This change directly impacts my ability to afford my medications, which typically cost between $6000 and $8500 per month. On 2-23-2026, I was admitted to the hospital and told that my stomach is fully inflamed. Medications prescribed at discharge are already costing $1,200, and that amount may increase after I see my GI specialist next week.

When I attempted to return to work, I became sick again. The company I was training with informed me that since I got sick during training, I would have to start over. What they didn’t realize is that my attempt to return to work had already affected my insurance and disability benefits. Now I am facing a gap in coverage and the possibility of waiting 2–6 months to have my benefits fully reinstated.

This has been a cycle in my life: every time I try to return to work, my health declines and I end up hospitalized, having to restart the lengthy benefits process all over again. This time, however, the financial burden is more than I can manage on my own.

My wife also struggles with health issues and is unable to work. We are doing everything we can, but we need help.

The purpose of this GoFundMe is to help cover my medical expenses, medications, and basic living costs during this difficult period. I also want to use this platform to raise awareness for others living with chronic illness—especially those navigating Medicare and Medicaid, where income limits can make it incredibly difficult to work without losing essential coverage.

I’ve begun sharing my journey on YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook to encourage others who are silently battling chronic illness. For many years, I didn’t like talking about my health or our financial struggles. But recently, after praying about it, I felt led to share my story in the hope that it might help even one person feel less alone.

I will provide receipts and transparency about how any funds are used. My goal is not only to support my family during this time, but also to inspire and help others who are struggling.

If you feel led to give, share, or pray for our family, we are deeply grateful. I truly believe that when we come together, anything is possible.

With gratitude,

Sam Babbie