Ken's Medical Recovery Fund

My name is Ken, and I've started this GoFundMe to help alleviate the financial pressure of medical expenses that Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina refuses to cover.

I work in clinical research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in the Department of Anesthesiology, where I work on studies aimed at better understanding the development of PTSD and chronic pain. 

I have struggled with my weight since my late teens, and several years ago I began a journey to finally get it under control. With hard work, lots of exercise, and a strict diet, I have managed to lose 180 lbs without surgery. 


Unfortunately, a weight loss of this magnitude leaves behind excess skin, which has taken a toll on my body, making routine activities painful and my daily life uncomfortable.

After consulting with my primary care doctor, we've agreed that surgery is the best option moving forward to take care of the skin issues causing me so many problems. However, despite a letter from my doctor documenting all of the issues I've had as well as recommending surgery as the best option, my insurance company denied the request.

They don't consider it a "medical necessity" unless I first suffer through at least two antibiotic resistant infections. I'm not willing to risk my health and wait for that to happen, so I have decided to move forward without their support. 

I found a surgeon who recommends having a larger procedure that will take care of the majority of my issues with a single surgery -- making it possible for me to have the surgery and recover within the amount of vacation time I have saved up. 

My surgery is currently scheduled for February 24th, 2017. However, I can't afford this surgery out of pocket, and my insurance company refusing to cover it has resulted in a large financial burden.

So, I'm asking for your help. 

Whether it's 50¢ or $5, anything will help. Any money I manage to raise will go towards the cost of surgery, the follow-up visits, and other expenses associated with having the procedure done.

My wonderful girlfriend Amy has been incredibly supportive over the last few months of trying to get everything arranged, and has offered to take care of me during my 3 week recovery period.


I'm planning on documenting my recovery for the benefit of other people who are considering going a similar route, as well as telling my story for people who are interested in living healthier lives.

If you managed to read this far, thank you!

And if you decide to support me, just know you'll have my eternal gratitude for your support. It's not always easy to ask for help, but I'm grateful for the wonderful community of friends I have, and so thankful for all of the encouragement and support I've gotten along the way!