Surgery fund for Renata: septoplasty in Caxias do Sul

In July I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in the right knee. My surgeon at Caxias do Sul General Hospital recommended septoplasty, and I have been placed on the schedule for October. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $2,750, and after what my employer's plan will pay, I'm still $2,050 short. Doctors at Caxias do Sul General Hospital told me osteoarthritis in the right knee will get worse without septoplasty. I work as a restaurant cook, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $2,750 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. Recovery is expected to take about 6 weeks. I'll not be able to look after the children alone 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 $2,050 goes: • Hospital stay (3 nights): $860 • Travel and lodging for the family: $90 • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $970 • Post-operative medication: $85 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $45 Please ask me anything in the questions section. I'll answer honestly and quickly.