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

In August I was diagnosed with a thyroid nodule that needs removal. My surgeon at Mangaluru University 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 $1,000, and after what the government subsidy will pay, I'm still $500 short. Doctors at Mangaluru University Hospital told me a thyroid nodule that needs removal will get worse without spinal decompression surgery. I work as a warehouse packer, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $1,000 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a warehouse packer have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Rehabilitation 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 $500 goes: • Post-operative medication: $40 • Travel and lodging for the family: $50 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $50 • Hospital stay (4 nights): $360 I'll keep this page updated with receipts as things happen. - Kalyani