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

In July I was diagnosed with a torn ligament that needs reconstruction. My surgeon at Rome General Hospital recommended spinal decompression surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for October. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $6,750, and after what our health plan will pay, I'm still $3,400 short. Doctors at Rome General Hospital told me a torn ligament that needs reconstruction 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 $6,750 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 5 weeks. I'll not be able to stand for more than ten minutes 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 $3,400 goes: • Travel and lodging for the family: $125 • Hospital stay (3 nights): $2,500 • Physiotherapy sessions: $390 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $270 • Post-operative medication: $115 I'll pay this kindness forward the moment I'm able to. - Teresa