Back Where We Left Off: Help Anthony Heal for Good

Since November 2023, my son Anthony has undergone 17 procedures to treat a complex and painful fistula causing recurring infections and hospitalizations. Despite efforts from top surgeons at Columbia, Mount Sinai, and Northwell, the issue persists. His doctors now believe the only option here in the U.S. may be a permanent ileostomy — a life-altering surgery that would remove part of his intestine and require wearing a bag indefinitely.

Anthony was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis at 15 and has endured multiple major surgeries since then. His doctors now suspect Crohn’s Disease may be the root cause of this ongoing issue. He has tried everything from long-term antibiotics to infusions like Remicade — but nothing has worked long-term.

After extensive research, a family member found Dr. Ashwin Porwal in India, who offers a highly specialized laser surgery for complex fistulas not available anywhere else in the world. Dr. Porwal’s success rate is over 99%, and he has helped many people with similar cases avoid permanent ileostomies. To pursue this surgery, Anthony would need to stay in India for 3–4 months for the procedure and follow-ups — none of which are covered by insurance.

In December, friends helped create a GoFundMe to raise money for the surgery. But when Anthony started to feel better thanks to a new drain placement, he refunded many of the donations and had the fundraiser taken down, believing he no longer needed to go. Unfortunately, in March, the issue returned worse than ever — with multiple new fistulas and painful abscesses that required emergency surgery. It’s now clear that India is his best and possibly only option for a permanent solution.

This fundraiser will help cover the cost of surgery, travel, housing, aftercare, food, and medical bills.

Anthony has handled all of this with strength and grace — never losing his sense of humor or determination. Any amount you can give will go a long way, and even a share could help us reach someone who can help.

Thank you for your kindness and support!

For more information on Healing Hands Clinic and Dr. Porwal, click here.

With love,

Mary Valensise Troffa