Balaji's a partial thyroidectomy can't wait - please help us cover the bill

In May I was diagnosed with an aortic valve defect. My surgeon at Saint Matthew Hospital recommended a partial thyroidectomy, and I have been placed on the schedule for August. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $580, and after what the government subsidy will pay, I'm still $350 short. Doctors at Saint Matthew Hospital told me an aortic valve defect will get worse without a partial thyroidectomy. I work as a seamstress, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $580 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. Recovery is expected to take about 5 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 $350 goes: • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $30 • Travel and lodging for the family: $30 • Physiotherapy sessions: $100 • Hospital stay (5 nights): $190 If you can't give, please share this page. It does reach people.