Steel wool and elbow grease

Yes, you can fix it.

That orange rust is just surface oxidation. It hasn’t eaten into the iron unless there are actual pits or holes. You don’t need harsh chemicals or power tools.

Scrub the whole pan with fine (0000) steel wool and a little water or white vinegar if the rust is stubborn. The vinegar speeds things up but don’t let it sit more than 15 minutes—it can damage the iron. Dry immediately with a towel, then put it on the stove on low heat to evaporate any moisture.

Once it’s dry and gray (no orange spots), you need to reseason. Rub a thin layer of vegetable oil or flaxseed oil all over, wipe off the excess like you made a mistake, then bake it upside down at 400–450°F for an hour. Repeat that twice.

That’s it. No sanding, no electrolysis, no worrying. Neglected cast iron is almost always salvageable. Future you will thank present you for not tossing it.