Elizabeth Stagg relies on a feeding tube and formula to eat. Under Sun Life, the formula and tubing was covered at 80 per cent. Since the switch to Canada Life, she can no longer afford her food.

Ying says feeding tubes are often started with the intention of prolonging a person's life. Yet, "there is no evidence to show they help with survival," she says.

A Winnipeg toddler has a rare birth defect and requires a feeding tube. But his family is struggling since the child doesn't tolerate the formulas provided by the province.