Surgery fund for Liliana: a partial thyroidectomy in Albany

In May I was diagnosed with a cleft palate needing repair. My surgeon at Albany University Hospital recommended a partial thyroidectomy, and I have been placed on the schedule for August. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $9,250, and after what our health plan will pay, I'm still $6,550 short. Doctors at Albany University Hospital told me a cleft palate needing repair will get worse without a partial thyroidectomy. I work as a restaurant cook, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $9,250 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a restaurant cook have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Rehabilitation is expected to take about 7 weeks. I'll not be able to work a full shift 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 $6,550 goes: • Post-operative medication: $370 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $560 • Travel and lodging for the family: $290 • Hospital stay (2 nights): $1,800 • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $3,530 I'll pay this kindness forward the moment I'm able to.