Gallbladder removal for Hellen: covering what insurance won't

In August I was diagnosed with an aortic valve defect. My surgeon at Saint Joseph Hospital recommended gallbladder removal, and I have been placed on the schedule for December. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $790, and after what my employer's plan will pay, I'm still $550 short. Doctors at Saint Joseph Hospital told me an aortic valve defect will get worse without gallbladder removal. I work as a farm laborer, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $790 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a farm laborer have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Recovery is expected to take about 8 weeks. I'll not be able to stand for more than ten minutes 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 $550 goes: • Physiotherapy sessions: $85 • Travel and lodging for the family: $35 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $90 • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $280 • Post-operative medication: $60 Please ask me anything in the questions section. I'll answer honestly and quickly. - Hellen