ACL reconstruction for Thierry: covering what insurance won't

In August I was diagnosed with a herniated spinal disc. My surgeon at Saint Francis Hospital recommended ACL reconstruction, and I have been placed on the schedule for November. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $8,000, and after what my insurance will pay, I'm still $4,750 short. Doctors at Saint Francis Hospital told me a herniated spinal disc will get worse without ACL reconstruction. I work as a school bus driver, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $8,000 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a school bus driver have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. The recovery period is expected to take about 10 weeks. I'll not be able to look after the children alone 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 $4,750 goes: • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $1,400 • Hospital stay (3 nights): $2,400 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $240 • Post-operative medication: $135 • Physiotherapy sessions: $410 • Travel and lodging for the family: $165 I'll keep this page updated with receipts as things happen.