Help Erich Access Life-Saving Spine Surgery
Family and friends of Erich Jakob are raising money through the nonprofit Help Hope Live to cover the direct medical expenses of his urgent spinal surgery.
Erich is 29 years old and has been living with constant, debilitating pain caused by his L5-S1 disc in his lower spine. His L5–S1 disc has degenerated to the point where bone is grinding against bone, causing severe pain and structural damage. Despite following every conservative treatment step, his insurance has denied coverage for the one procedure multiple surgeons have agreed is necessary: artificial disc replacement surgery.
Updates (2)
November 18, 2025
After months of consultations with specialists across the United States and internationally, Erich finally has a confirmed surgical plan in Los Angeles. The facility has offered a financial hardship discount, bringing the total cost to $59,750 for a two level lumbar disc replacement at L4 L5 and L5 S1.This surgery offers his best and possibly only chance to regain mobility, reduce pain, and prevent further deterioration in his spine. Unfortunately, his insurance has denied coverage for the procedure, and the surgery center requires full payment upfront before scheduling can occur.Every authorization request and appeal submitted by multiple surgeons has been denied. Under current ERISA laws, patients have almost no recourse when insurance refuses to pay. This is why Erich and his family are turning to the Help Hope Live community for support.Donations made through Help Hope Live go directly toward Erich’s surgical and medical costs and are tax deductible. Help Hope Live will pay the medical provider directly on Erich’s behalf.We are deeply grateful for every person who has supported Erich through this long and painful process. Your generosity brings him one step closer to a life without constant pain.Thank you for believing in his recovery and for being part of his journey.The Jakob Family
August 16, 2025
Hi All, Erich’s appeal through Aetna has been denied. Despite multiple orthopedic surgeons agreeing that disc replacement surgery is necessary, Aetna has labeled the procedure as “not medically necessary.” This is happening even though Erich’s spine is bone on bone at L5-S1, grinding 24/7, and continuing to deteriorate every day. Because of ERISA laws, insurance companies like Aetna are protected from accountability even when they deny life-changing treatment. This means we are now facing the reality that surgery will not be covered, and Erich may be forced into severe medical debt to move forward with the only procedure that can help him. We desperately need your help. Please share this campaign as widely as possible. Friends, family, social media, community groups anyone who might be able to support or spread the word. Every donation and every share makes a difference. Thank you for standing with Erich during this incredibly difficult time.
Photo Galleries (3)
Guestbook
November 19, 2025
Good luck!
Anonymous
November 19, 2025
Hope a little helps bro
Patrick Robinson
October 22, 2025
Stay strong and focused
Patrick Daugherty
