Surgery fund for Ouma: a partial thyroidectomy in Mukono

In June I was diagnosed with a torn ligament that needs reconstruction. My surgeon at Mukono Regional Medical Center 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 $1,500, and after what our health plan will pay, I'm still $1,050 short. Doctors at Mukono Regional Medical Center told me a torn ligament that needs reconstruction will get worse without a partial thyroidectomy. I work as a call-centre agent, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $1,500 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a call-centre agent 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 drive 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 $1,050 goes: • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $390 • Hospital stay (2 nights): $460 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $60 • Post-operative medication: $50 • Physiotherapy sessions: $50 • Travel and lodging for the family: $40 Whatever you can give, even just sharing this page, means a lot. - Ouma