Beatrix's valve repair surgery can't wait - please help us cover the bill

In November I was diagnosed with an aortic valve defect. My surgeon at Pietermaritzburg Regional Medical Center recommended valve repair surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for February. 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 Pietermaritzburg Regional Medical Center told me an aortic valve defect will get worse without valve repair surgery. I work as a warehouse packer, 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 warehouse packer have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Recovery is expected to take about 10 weeks. I'll not be able to work a full shift 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: • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $140 • Travel and lodging for the family: $60 • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $670 • Post-operative medication: $80 If you can't give, please share this page. It does reach people.