Help Bernard Fight Crushing Medical Debt After Life-Saving Cancer Surgery
What started as a routine visit for scoliosis turned into a life-altering diagnosis. During testing, doctors discovered a massive 13.5cm, 9.8lb tumor inside my body. I was told, “We can fix your back, but we can’t fix your cancer.” I chose MD Anderson Cancer Center, known for taking only the most critical cases — and they accepted me.
But while the cancer was urgent, insurance dragged its feet. I couldn’t wait. I liquidated my 401k and paid $37,000 out of pocket to begin treatment and testing. The tumor was dangerously attached to my lung, kidney, and liver. Surgery was scheduled immediately. I signed a living will and went under, not knowing if I’d come out.
I survived. The recovery was brutal, but I pushed through and was eventually cleared for light duty. I sent all required documents to my employer. Days later, I was told they had “no position” for me because I might lift over 25lbs — despite working remotely and rarely lifting anything. That same day, they terminated my insurance, suspended my access, denied my PTO, and left me with no income and no safety net while I was still in recovery.
I’ve since had to fight to get government-issued insurance and cover all new out-of-pocket costs on my own. The total bill for surgery came to over $1.3 million. Insurance finally covered a portion, but I’m still personally responsible for more than $300,000 — nearly the cost of a home — and I now make monthly payments equal to a mortgage, likely for the rest of my life.
I just had a second surgery for complications (a hernia) and I’m still undergoing follow-up treatment and monitoring for possible remaining cancer. I’ve held out as long as I could, paid my bills, and never asked for help — until now.
Anything you can give will go directly to medical debt and care. If we surpass the goal, I’ll donate the extra transparently to another cancer patient in need — not a corporation, but a real person, just like me.
Thank you for your support, prayers, and for helping me keep going.
— Bernard Basque III
