Spinal decompression surgery for Gaurav: covering what insurance won't

In August I was diagnosed with an aortic valve defect. My surgeon at Saint Anne Hospital recommended spinal decompression surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for November. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $700, and after what the government subsidy will pay, I'm still $350 short. Doctors at Saint Anne Hospital told me an aortic valve defect will get worse without spinal decompression surgery. I work as a school bus driver, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $700 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. Rehabilitation is expected to take about 6 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. 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 $350 goes: • Travel and lodging for the family: $25 • Hospital stay (4 nights): $230 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $95 If you can't give, please share this page. It does reach people.