Hip replacement surgery for Afshan: covering what insurance won't

In July I was diagnosed with a cleft palate needing repair. My surgeon at Saint Francis Hospital recommended hip replacement surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for November. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $1,100, and after what our health plan will pay, I'm still $550 short. Doctors at Saint Francis Hospital told me a cleft palate needing repair will get worse without hip replacement surgery. I work as a taxi driver, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $1,100 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a taxi driver 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 climb stairs during that time, so this has become a financial emergency as well as a medical one. The money goes straight to the treatment bills, and I'll share the invoices as they're paid so you can see exactly what your gift did. Where the $550 goes: • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $330 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $85 • Physiotherapy sessions: $100 • Travel and lodging for the family: $35 If you can't give, please share this page. It does reach people. - Afshan