Emergency hernia repair for Corinne: covering what insurance won't

In August I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in the right knee. My surgeon at Poitiers Regional Medical Center recommended emergency hernia repair, and I have been placed on the schedule for November. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $9,000, and after what my insurance will pay, I'm still $6,800 short. Doctors at Poitiers Regional Medical Center told me osteoarthritis in the right knee will get worse without emergency hernia repair. I work as a retail assistant, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $9,000 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a retail assistant have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. The recovery period is expected to take about 3 weeks. I'll not be able to lift anything heavy 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 $6,800 goes: • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $250 • Hospital stay (5 nights): $3,100 • Post-operative medication: $330 • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $2,700 • Physiotherapy sessions: $420 I'll pay this kindness forward the moment I'm able to. - Corinne