Let’s be honest – hiccups are one of the most annoying things our bodies do. They strike at the worst times and seem impossible to shake off. From holding your breath to drinking water upside down, we’ve all tried those quirky home remedies, but they rarely work. That’s where HiccAway comes in, the scientifically proven solution that promises to kick those hiccups to the curb.
If you’re a Shark Tank fan, you might already know about HiccAway and its journey to securing a deal with Mark Cuban. As of 2024, this simple yet ingenious product is valued at $1.5 million. But how did this hiccup-curing straw come to life? Let’s dive into the fascinating story of Dr. Ali Seifi, his niece Amanda Azarpour, and entrepreneur Victor Feldberg.
The Birth of HiccAway
Dr. Ali Seifi, an associate professor of Neurosurgery at UT Health San Antonio, is the mastermind behind HiccAway. His inspiration? Years of witnessing patients struggling with persistent hiccups post-surgery. Hiccups might seem trivial, but when they stick around, they can be frustrating and even painful. Driven to find a solution, Ali conducted extensive research and found that hiccups could be stopped by applying pressure to the diaphragm in a specific way while drinking water.
This led to the invention of what was initially known as the Forced Inspiratory Suction and Swallow Tool (FISST). Quite a mouthful, right? Thankfully, the team rebranded it to the much catchier “HiccAway.”
Bringing the Idea to Life
In 2017, Ali joined forces with Victor Feldberg, a serial entrepreneur, to bring the product to market. They launched a Kickstarter campaign that attracted 646 backers and raised an impressive $60,649. With this initial boost, Ali and Victor patented their invention and began conducting studies. One study revealed that HiccAway worked 92% of the time – impressive stats for something as unpredictable as hiccups.
Fast forward to 2020, and the duo officially launched HiccAway as a full-fledged product. That’s when Amanda Azarpour, Ali’s niece and a marketing guru with experience at companies like Google and Facebook, joined the team. Her expertise in marketing played a crucial role in getting the product in front of the right audiences.
Shark Tank Appearance
With solid sales and glowing reviews, the HiccAway team felt ready to take things to the next level. In 2021, they appeared on season 13 of Shark Tank, asking for $250,000 in exchange for 10% equity. The Sharks were intrigued by Ali’s background and the science behind the product.
Barbara Corcoran and Lori Greiner voiced concerns about practicality, but Mark Cuban saw the potential. He offered $250,000 for 20% equity, believing HiccAway could find a home in everyone’s medicine cabinet. Kevin O’Leary countered with a 15% offer, but the team decided to partner with Mark, a decision many entrepreneurs on the show lean toward even if his deal isn’t the most competitive.
The deal closed shortly after the episode aired, and HiccAway’s journey to mainstream success began.
Media Buzz and Recognition
Following their Shark Tank appearance, HiccAway received media coverage from major outlets like The Washington Post, The Guardian, Healthline, and The New York Post. This publicity significantly boosted their visibility, driving sales and brand recognition.
In 2022, the team showcased HiccAway at the American College of Physicians (ACP) Medical Conference, handing out samples to doctors and healthcare professionals. It was another big step in legitimizing HiccAway as more than just a quirky gadget – it was now a trusted medical tool.
Where Is HiccAway Now?
If you’re curious to try this hiccup-busting device, HiccAway is readily available on Amazon, Walmart, and their official website, HiccAway.com. As of 2024, the product maintains a solid 4.3-star rating from over 4,100 Amazon reviews. While exact current sales figures haven’t been released, the company is believed to generate around $300,000 in annual revenue.
Amanda Azarpour is still involved with the company but now balances her role with a position at Salesforce as a Programs Manager. Victor Feldberg continues his work as a serial entrepreneur, while Ali Seifi remains dedicated to his research and development of new medical innovations.
Why HiccAway Stands Out
There are countless remedies for hiccups, but few (if any) are backed by science. HiccAway’s effectiveness rate of 92% sets it apart from traditional solutions. It’s simple to use, non-invasive, and, most importantly, it works.
Mark Cuban’s belief in HiccAway wasn’t just a hunch. The device taps into a common problem with a solution that’s affordable and easy to access. This combination of scientific backing and practical application makes HiccAway a standout product in a sea of home remedies.
Final Thoughts
HiccAway’s journey from a research-driven idea to a Shark Tank-backed product valued at $1.5 million is a testament to innovation and persistence. It’s a reminder that even the simplest problems – like hiccups – can inspire groundbreaking solutions.
So, the next time you’re hit with a bout of hiccups, skip the spoonful of sugar or the upside-down water chug. HiccAway might just become your new favorite fix.
