Gallbladder removal for Joyce: covering what insurance won't

In May I was diagnosed with a thyroid nodule that needs removal. My surgeon at Lapu-Lapu Orthopedic Institute recommended gallbladder removal, and I have been placed on the schedule for August. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $930, and after what my employer's plan will pay, I'm still $650 short. Doctors at Lapu-Lapu Orthopedic Institute told me a thyroid nodule that needs removal will get worse without gallbladder removal. I work as a retail assistant, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $930 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. Rehabilitation is expected to take about 8 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 $650 goes: • Physiotherapy sessions: $105 • Hospital stay (3 nights): $440 • Post-operative medication: $25 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $50 • Travel and lodging for the family: $30 Thank you so much. - Joyce