What is gastroparesis and how does it affect Matthew Pascoe?

Gastroparesis is a disorder slowing stomach emptying, causing Matthew to vomit up to 90 times daily and experience severe pain.

Why does Matthew Pascoe need £15,000 for his medical device?

He needs to fund a replacement battery for his gastric neurostimulator, as NHS England will not cover the cost.

Is Matthew Pascoe the only surgeon in the UK who can treat his condition?

His specialist, Sritharan Kadirkamanathan, is noted as the only surgeon in the UK with sufficient experience for this specific treatment.

Home / Health / Man Vomits 60x Daily, NHS Won't Fund Life-Saving Battery

Man Vomits 60x Daily, NHS Won't Fund Life-Saving Battery

29 Nov

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Summary

Man with rare gastroparesis vomits up to 90 times daily.
NHS refuses to fund a battery for his life-saving stimulator.
He must raise £15,000 for essential device maintenance.

Man Vomits 60x Daily, NHS Won't Fund Life-Saving Battery

Matthew Pascoe, a 33-year-old man from Colchester, Essex, is battling gastroparesis, a condition that leaves him vomiting between 50 and 90 times daily and in constant pain. His vital gastric neurostimulator, which powers his digestive system, is nearing shutdown because its battery has degraded after seven years of intensive use.

The NHS is unwilling to fund a new battery, despite guidelines allowing for Individual Funding Requests. This leaves Matthew facing the daunting task of raising £15,000 to cover the essential repair himself. Previously, he raised £20,000 for the initial device fitting.

Matthew emphasizes the life-changing impact of the stimulator, enabling him to eat and regain some quality of life. He advocates for greater recognition of rare conditions, arguing that personalized care could ultimately save the NHS money and improve patients' lives.