A Buffalo family is preparing for a life-changing surgery for their infant son, Cameron Casacci, who faces severe medical challenges after a stroke at birth. After an initial insurance denial, a recent reversal now paves the way for the necessary treatment.
What Happened
Baby Cameron Casacci, born on September 11, 2024, suffered a stroke affecting the left side of his brain soon after birth. He has since been diagnosed with medication-resistant epilepsy, experiencing frequent seizures. His epileptologist recommended a hemispherectomy — a major surgery disconnecting the left hemisphere of the brain — as a last resort to reduce seizures.
Initially, Cameron’s Medicaid managed care plan, Independent Health, denied coverage for the surgery planned in Pittsburgh. However, following intervention from the New York State Department of Health, the insurance company reversed its decision. Cameron is now scheduled to have the surgery on August 20, 2025, in Pittsburgh.
Who Is Baby Cameron Casacci
Cameron Casacci is an infant from Buffalo, New York, who has endured serious health complications since birth. His parents, Brad and Alyssa Casacci, have been advocating for his care amid insurance hurdles, highlighting the challenges families face navigating specialized medical needs.
Background or Timeline
- September 11, 2024: Cameron is born and soon suffers a stroke.
- Post-birth: Diagnosed with medication-resistant epilepsy, experiencing seizures.
- Surgery recommended by epileptologist: hemispherectomy in Pittsburgh.
- Independent Health initially denies out-of-state coverage for surgery.
- New York State Department of Health intervenes, urging reversal of denial.
- Independent Health reverses denial; surgery scheduled for August 20, 2025.
Public or Social Media Reaction
The Casacci family’s story has drawn attention from local news and community supporters, highlighting concerns around insurance coverage for specialized care. Advocates and viewers have expressed support for the family’s perseverance and hope for a successful surgery.
Official Statement or What Happens Next
Independent Health released a statement explaining their initial denial was based on Medicaid rules prioritizing in-network providers. They confirmed ongoing communication with the New York State Department of Health and acknowledged the Department’s flexibility to approve this rare procedure out-of-network, allowing the surgery to proceed without further delay.
The family remains focused on preparing for the surgery and hopes this case underscores the importance of access to specialized healthcare services for children with complex medical needs.
This story may be updated with more information as it becomes available.
