A craniotomy for Evelyn: covering what insurance won't

In August I was diagnosed with a thyroid nodule that needs removal. My surgeon at San Francisco General Hospital recommended a craniotomy, and I have been placed on the schedule for December. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $11,000, and after what our health plan will pay, I'm still $8,300 short. Doctors at San Francisco General Hospital told me a thyroid nodule that needs removal will get worse without a craniotomy. I work as a market vendor, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $11,000 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a market vendor have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. The recovery period is expected to take about 12 weeks. I'll not be able to stand for more than ten minutes during that time, so this has become a financial emergency as well as a medical one. The money goes straight to the treatment bills, and I'll share the invoices as they're paid so you can see exactly what your gift did. Where the $8,300 goes: • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $3,800 • Hospital stay (2 nights): $2,200 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $680 • Post-operative medication: $360 • Physiotherapy sessions: $940 • Travel and lodging for the family: $320 You're what makes this possible, and I'll never forget it.