A craniotomy for Kristine: covering what insurance won't

In July I was diagnosed with endometriosis requiring surgery. My surgeon at Saint Luke Hospital recommended a craniotomy, and I have been placed on the schedule for September. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $1,350, and after what my insurance will pay, I'm still $950 short. Doctors at Saint Luke Hospital told me endometriosis requiring surgery will get worse without a craniotomy. I work as a seamstress, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $1,350 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a seamstress have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Rehabilitation 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 $950 goes: • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $560 • Travel and lodging for the family: $70 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $105 • Hospital stay (4 nights): $215 Thank you for reading my story.