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

In July I was diagnosed with a thyroid nodule that needs removal. My surgeon at Reading Regional Medical Center recommended valve repair surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for October. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $3,150, and after what the public health scheme will pay, I'm still $2,500 short. Doctors at Reading Regional Medical Center told me a thyroid nodule that needs removal will get worse without valve repair surgery. I work as a restaurant cook, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $3,150 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a restaurant cook have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Rehabilitation is expected to take about 10 weeks. I'll not be able to walk without help during that time, so this has become a financial emergency as well as a medical one. I'll pay the hospital and pharmacy directly and post every receipt in the updates section. Where the $2,500 goes: • Travel and lodging for the family: $480 • Physiotherapy sessions: $700 • Hospital stay (4 nights): $1,320 I'll keep this page updated with receipts as things happen. - Carter