Cataract surgery for Julián: covering what insurance won't

Julián was diagnosed with a hernia that has become strangulated in July. The surgeon at Rockford General Hospital recommended cataract surgery, and He is scheduled for October. The hospital's financial office gave us a written estimate of $16,750, and after what the government subsidy will pay we're still $8,400 short. my father has been in and out of Rockford General Hospital since July. The doctors say a hernia that has become strangulated will get worse without cataract surgery. We have emptied our savings and borrowed from relatives, but the estimate of $16,750 is more than we can find. While we wait, Julián struggles with daily life and can't drive. His family has taken turns caring for him, and I've cut my own work hours to be there. Rehabilitation is expected to take about 4 weeks. During that time Julián won't be able to drive, so the costs keep growing. I'll pay the hospital and pharmacy directly and post every receipt in the updates section. Where the $8,400 goes: • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $3,150 • Hospital stay (3 nights): $3,400 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $480 • Post-operative medication: $270 • Physiotherapy sessions: $780 • Travel and lodging for the family: $320 If you're reading this, thank you. - Camila