Surgery fund for Romeo: knee replacement surgery in Quezon City

In March I was diagnosed with a torn ligament that needs reconstruction. My surgeon at Quezon City University Hospital recommended knee replacement surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for May. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $1,000, and after what the government subsidy will pay, I'm still $800 short. Doctors at Quezon City University Hospital told me a torn ligament that needs reconstruction will get worse without knee replacement surgery. I work as a taxi driver, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $1,000 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a taxi driver have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Recovery is expected to take about 5 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 $800 goes: • Travel and lodging for the family: $80 • Physiotherapy sessions: $150 • Hospital stay (4 nights): $570 I never thought I'd be the one asking, and I'm grateful for every bit of support.