Knee replacement surgery for Nathalie: covering what insurance won't

In August I was diagnosed with a cleft palate needing repair. My surgeon at Salé Community Hospital recommended knee replacement surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for November. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $2,050, and after what the government subsidy will pay, I'm still $1,650 short. Doctors at Salé Community Hospital told me a cleft palate needing repair will get worse without knee replacement surgery. I work as a school bus driver, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $2,050 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a school bus driver have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. The recovery period is expected to take about 12 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 $1,650 goes: • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $580 • Hospital stay (4 nights): $760 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $85 • Post-operative medication: $45 • Physiotherapy sessions: $85 • Travel and lodging for the family: $95 Even a small gift gets used right away and I'll thank you myself.