Cataract surgery for Bongani: covering what insurance won't

In August I was diagnosed with a thyroid nodule that needs removal. My surgeon at Saint Francis Hospital recommended cataract surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for October. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $1,400, and after what our health plan will pay, I'm still $1,100 short. Doctors at Saint Francis Hospital told me a thyroid nodule that needs removal will get worse without cataract surgery. I work as a restaurant cook, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $1,400 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 12 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 $1,100 goes: • Hospital stay (3 nights): $640 • Physiotherapy sessions: $195 • Travel and lodging for the family: $120 • Post-operative medication: $65 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $80 I hope life is good to you. - Bongani