Ronaldo's ACL reconstruction can't wait - please help us cover the bill

In July I was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor. My surgeon at Campinas General Hospital recommended ACL reconstruction, and I have been placed on the schedule for September. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $1,700, and after what my insurance will pay, I'm still $850 short. Doctors at Campinas General Hospital told me a benign brain tumor will get worse without ACL reconstruction. I work as a retail assistant, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $1,700 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a retail assistant have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. The recovery period is expected to take about 10 weeks. I'll not be able to lift anything heavy 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: • Travel and lodging for the family: $125 • Hospital stay (4 nights): $530 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $130 • Post-operative medication: $65 With deep gratitude, Ronaldo