Surgery fund for Patrick: knee replacement surgery in Toronto

In August I was diagnosed with a cleft palate needing repair. My surgeon at Toronto University Hospital recommended knee replacement surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for October. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $3,700, and after what my employer's plan will pay, I'm still $2,600 short. Doctors at Toronto University Hospital told me a cleft palate needing repair will get worse without knee replacement surgery. I work as a care assistant, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $3,700 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a care assistant have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Recovery is expected to take about 8 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 $2,600 goes: • Hospital stay (4 nights): $1,400 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $590 • Post-operative medication: $320 • Travel and lodging for the family: $290 I hope life is good to you. - Patrick