Gallbladder removal for Madhu: covering what insurance won't

In April I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in the right knee. My surgeon at Nashik University Hospital recommended gallbladder removal, and I have been placed on the schedule for July. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $1,400, and after what my insurance will pay, I'm still $850 short. Doctors at Nashik University Hospital told me osteoarthritis in the right knee will get worse without gallbladder removal. I work as a restaurant cook, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $1,400 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a restaurant cook have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Recovery is expected to take about 10 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 $850 goes: • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $420 • Hospital stay (4 nights): $185 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $70 • Post-operative medication: $55 • Physiotherapy sessions: $65 • Travel and lodging for the family: $55 You're what makes this possible, and I'll never forget it. - Madhu