Gallbladder removal for Karanja: covering what insurance won't

In July I was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor. My surgeon at Nairobi General Hospital recommended gallbladder removal, and I have been placed on the schedule for October. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $1,800, and after what the public health scheme will pay, I'm still $1,450 short. Doctors at Nairobi General Hospital told me a benign brain tumor will get worse without gallbladder removal. I work as a market vendor, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $1,800 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a market vendor have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. The recovery period is expected to take about 4 weeks. I'll not be able to walk without help 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 $1,450 goes: • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $540 • Hospital stay (4 nights): $650 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $65 • Post-operative medication: $60 • Physiotherapy sessions: $85 • Travel and lodging for the family: $50 Thank you for reading my story.