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

In July I was diagnosed with an aortic valve defect. My surgeon at Manchester General Hospital recommended hip replacement surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for October. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $9,500, and after what my employer's plan will pay, I'm still $5,650 short. Doctors at Manchester General Hospital told me an aortic valve defect will get worse without hip replacement surgery. I work as a hotel cleaner, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $9,500 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a hotel cleaner have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. The recovery period is expected to take about 5 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 $5,650 goes: • Post-operative medication: $180 • Hospital stay (5 nights): $1,250 • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $3,750 • Travel and lodging for the family: $470 I'll keep this page updated with receipts as things happen.