Hello, my name is David, and I live in Saint John, New Brunswick with my wife and two children.

At 54 years old, I never imagined I would have to choose between financial survival and undergoing open-heart surgery.

I am currently awaiting open-heart surgery to repair an aortic root aneurysm associated with a bicuspid aortic valve.

In January 2026, I was advised that surgery would likely take place by the end of February. After years of appointments, testing, monitoring, and following medical advice, I believed the finish line was finally in sight.

I was advised to focus on preparing for surgery and recovery rather than pursuing employment, so I did exactly that.

February came and went. Then March. Then April. Then May.

I completely understand that emergency cases must take priority. This is not a criticism of the surgeons, nurses, or healthcare professionals who have cared for me. They have been compassionate and professional throughout this process.

My concern is what happens to patients while they wait.

Before this heart condition, I had already used Employment Insurance sickness benefits during a previous period of significant health challenges. As the months passed and my surgery continued to be delayed, there was no financial support available to bridge the gap.

To keep my family afloat, I began selling possessions I had accumulated over a lifetime—collectibles, antiques, and personal belongings. Piece by piece, decades of collecting disappeared to help pay for groceries, rent, utilities, transportation, and other essential expenses.

Eventually, the financial strain became overwhelming.

When I was finally offered a surgery date of May 28, I found myself facing an impossible situation. After months without meaningful financial support, I no longer felt financially able to stop working and begin the 5-8 week recovery period that follows major open-heart surgery.

Postponing that surgery was one of the hardest decisions I have ever had to make.

Now I face another difficult reality. In order to rebuild some financial stability and potentially qualify for future benefits, I may need to return full time to work while continuing to wait for surgery.

It is a strange position to be in: medically unwell enough to require open-heart surgery, yet financially forced to consider returning to work while waiting for that surgery.

I am creating this fundraiser to help bridge that gap.

Funds raised will help cover basic living expenses such as rent, groceries, utilities, transportation, and other household costs while I await surgery and prepare for recovery.

If you are unable to donate, sharing this fundraiser would mean just as much.

Thank you for taking the time to read my story and for any support you can provide. My family and I are deeply grateful.