My name is Antonin, I am 36 and live permanently in UK since 2007.

In 2014 I had a spine surgery after collapsing at work. I was diagnosed with minor form of fibrosis. The surgery only increased my lower back pain but the local doctors told me they cannot do anything more about and I just need to live with this increasing pain.

For several years I tried to find an independent doctor who could do the assessment in order to confirm or reject this diagnosis as I did not want to stay in pain for the rest of my life. The 'independent' specialists were always coming from the same hospital and they could not be called trustworthy.

I then decided to seek medical advice in Slovakia where I am coming from. The diagnosis the doctors gave was completely different - persisting medial hernia/protrusion even extrusion/ of the disc. They advised TLIF operation would significantly help. The local doctors once again refused this diagnosis and NHS rejected the reimbursement of treatment in Slovakia.

I now have no other option as fund the surgery in Slovakia myself which I cannot afford. My only income comes from local benefits which is even more frustrating. I would rather come back to normal life, be able to work, sightseeing, meeting with friends again.

I would greatly appreciate any help towards my surgery costs - Thank You!