Denied Spine Surgery Leaves Texas Teen in Agony

As of August 21, 2025, 18-year-old Nala White from Austin, Texas, has been struggling with the effects of degenerative disc disease for the past three years. The condition, which often develops in families, has caused her severe back and leg pain, making even simple tasks like standing or walking excruciating.

Despite multiple doctors recommending surgery to alleviate the compression on her nerves, White's insurance provider, Aetna, has twice denied coverage for the procedure, claiming it was "not medically necessary." This denial has forced White's family to take drastic measures, setting up a GoFundMe campaign that raised over $33,000 in just a few days to cover the cost of the surgery.

The challenges faced by White are not unique. Doctors who specialize in treating degenerative disc disease say insurance companies frequently deny coverage for spine surgeries, even when they are deemed necessary by medical professionals. The reasons for these denials can vary, from concerns about the cost of the procedures to disagreements over the best course of treatment.

Fortunately, after NBC News reached out to Aetna, the insurance provider approved coverage for White's surgery on August 1st. However, the family is still waiting to hear back about additional reimbursements. The ordeal has left them frustrated with a healthcare system they believe is "not designed to get people healthy."

As White recovers from her surgery, she is hopeful that she can now move forward with her life, including starting community college next week – a dream she wasn't sure was possible before the procedure. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing battles patients face in navigating the complex and often challenging world of healthcare coverage.