Help Jacob diagnose Dercum Disease

$1,515 donated
Given by 20 generous donors in 8 weeks

Jacob needs help to get tests, in order to get a diagnosis for a rare disease called Dercum Disease.

Wellington

Since the age of eighteen, Jacob has struggled with many lipomas in his body. After ten years of struggling with doctors in New Zealand, he has not gotten anywhere. Since moving to Melbourne two months ago, these lipomas have began interfering with Jacob's body, causing issues with sleeping, eating, energy and mood, and as of late, chronic pain. As a result of this pain, Jacob is unable to be active and find work.

Research suggests that Jacob has Dercum Disease, a rare disease (especially for men), characterised by the growth of many being lipomas deep under the skin. If left untreated, these lipomas can prevent nutrient absorption from food, put pressure against other organs and nerves, and have a negative impact on a person's sleep and mental health.

The only way to help Jacob is to meet with required specialists, such as dermatologists, to obtain a diagnosis and receive the care he needs. Without these lipomas, Jacob can return to his original, lively self!

Liam Furey's involvement (page creator)

Jacob is my amazing husband, who I've been with for nearly eight years, married for three.

Use of funds

The money will be used on appointments and tests with specialists, to rule out any other illness, and eventually confirm Dercum Disease.

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Latest update

Thanks everyone!  1 July 2025

Thanks to everyone who have donated! The generosity from friends and family mean a lot to us.

Unfortunately, our journey getting Jacob's diagnosis will be a lot longer than expected: we have a plastic surgeon and dermatologist both scheduled for November. Until then, our focus is on pain management, and for Jacob to find additional work. At the very least, we are now in a situation where Jacob and I can stay in Melbourne and support each other. It is just one day at a time from here ...

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Latest donations

Jen
Jen on 20 May 2025
Thinking of you xx Jen
Private
Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 18 May 2025
$50
Catherine
Catherine on 18 May 2025
Thinking of you Jacob, and I hope you're able to get the proper care that you need so that you can be pain free and enjoy your life here in Melbourne xx
$100
Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 08 May 2025
Private
Mallory
Mallory on 08 May 2025
$20

Who's involved?

Liam Furey's avatar
Created by, and paying to a verified bank account of, Liam Furey on behalf of Jacob Johnston
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This campaign started on 4 May 2025 and ended on 30 Jun 2025.