A craniotomy for Samira: covering what insurance won't

Samira was diagnosed with a herniated spinal disc in February. The surgeon at Cairo Orthopedic Institute recommended a craniotomy, and She is scheduled for May. The hospital's financial office gave us a written estimate of $250, and after what my employer's plan will pay we're still $200 short. my sister has been in and out of Cairo Orthopedic Institute since February. The doctors say a herniated spinal disc will get worse without a craniotomy. We have emptied our savings and borrowed from relatives, but the estimate of $250 is more than we can find. While we wait, Samira struggles with daily life and can't climb stairs. Her family has taken turns caring for her, and I've cut my own work hours to be there. Recovery is expected to take about 8 weeks. During that time Samira won't be able to climb stairs, so the costs keep growing. I'll pay the hospital and pharmacy directly and post every receipt in the updates section. Where the $200 goes: • Post-operative medication: $35 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $85 • Travel and lodging for the family: $80 I hope life is good to you. - Nadia