My name is Amanda, and I am creating this fundraiser on behalf of my sister, Rachel, and her husband, Connor.

In May of 2024, Connor’s life changed overnight. Out of the blue, he developed migraine-like symptoms that never went away. What began as a headache quickly became a constant, unbearable pain that has impacted every part of his daily life.

Since then, Connor has had to leave his job, and he and Rachel have spent the past year searching desperately for answers. He has undergone scans, bloodwork, and countless tests. He has tried more than 25 different medications, Botox, nerve blocks, and other treatments — but nothing has brought lasting relief.

In February, they traveled to the Mayo Clinic, where doctors confirmed what specialists in St. Louis had already diagnosed: New Daily Persistent Headache (NDPH) — a rare and debilitating condition that causes constant head pain with no known cure.

The couple’s life has changed dramatically. Connor has had to give up so much of what once brought him joy — playing golf, working out, going on dates with Rachel, and spending time with family and friends. Instead, he now spends much of his days in bed, battling relentless pain. He has missed holidays, gatherings, and milestones that most of us take for granted. Even their wedding day was only made possible because Connor’s neurologist put him on steroids beforehand. While it gave him enough relief to enjoy the day, steroids cannot be used long term.

That glimpse of relief from steroids — and later, from nerve blocks — has given them hope. Because nerve blocks were the only treatment that helped Connor temporarily, doctors believe he is an ideal candidate for a specialized surgery that could finally bring lasting improvement.

Rachel found a surgeon in California who performs this procedure with a 93% success rate. Using precise instruments, he will carefully isolate and release the affected nerves from surrounding tissue, allowing the nerves to finally rest without constant irritation. The doctor is confident Connor is a good candidate, and surgery is scheduled for October. In some cases, a second procedure may be required to achieve full relief.

The challenge is that the surgery is not covered by insurance and is estimated to cost $22,000 — not including anesthesia and other ancillary facility charges. In addition, Connor and Rachel will face significant expenses for their required two-week stay in California for the procedure and recovery. Between medical bills, travel, and lodging, the financial burden is overwhelming.

We are asking for help to make this surgery possible. Any donation — big or small — will go directly toward the cost of Connor’s surgery and related expenses.

Connor is one of the most hardworking, kind, and caring people you could ever meet, and Rachel has been by his side every step of the way. They deserve a chance at relief and at reclaiming their life together.

If you are unable to donate, please consider sharing this page with others. And most importantly, we ask that you keep Connor, Rachel, our families, and the medical team in your prayers as he prepares for surgery.

Thank you so much for your love, support, and generosity.