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

Prakash was diagnosed with severe cataracts in both eyes in April. The surgeon at Mumbai General Hospital recommended emergency hernia repair, and He is scheduled for August. The hospital's financial office gave us a written estimate of $200, and after what the public health scheme will pay we're still $150 short. my father has been in and out of Mumbai General Hospital since April. The doctors say severe cataracts in both eyes will get worse without emergency hernia repair. We have emptied our savings and borrowed from relatives, but the estimate of $200 is more than we can find. While we wait, Prakash struggles with daily life and can't look after the children alone. His family has taken turns caring for him, and I've cut my own work hours to be there. The recovery period is expected to take about 4 weeks. During that time Prakash won't be able to look after the children alone, so the costs keep growing. I'll pay the hospital and pharmacy directly and post every receipt in the updates section. Where the $150 goes: • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $60 • Travel and lodging for the family: $30 • Post-operative medication: $60 Ask me anything below before you decide. I'd rather you were sure. - Ritu