Surgery fund for Sharon: gallbladder removal in Auckland

In February I was diagnosed with a torn ligament that needs reconstruction. My surgeon at Auckland General Hospital recommended gallbladder removal, and I have been placed on the schedule for May. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $4,700, and after what my employer's plan will pay, I'm still $2,350 short. Doctors at Auckland General Hospital told me a torn ligament that needs reconstruction will get worse without gallbladder removal. I work as a care assistant, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $4,700 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. The recovery period is expected to take about 4 weeks. I'll not be able to climb stairs 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 $2,350 goes: • Travel and lodging for the family: $260 • Hospital stay (2 nights): $1,750 • Post-operative medication: $120 • Physiotherapy sessions: $220 You're what makes this possible, and I'll never forget it. - Sharon