Surgery fund for Thandi: palate reconstruction surgery in Mthatha

In August I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in the right knee. My surgeon at Mthatha Orthopedic Institute recommended palate reconstruction surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for November. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $640, and after what my employer's plan will pay, I'm still $450 short. Doctors at Mthatha Orthopedic Institute told me osteoarthritis in the right knee will get worse without palate reconstruction surgery. I work as a market vendor, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $640 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a market vendor have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Rehabilitation is expected to take about 6 weeks. I'll not be able to drive 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 $450 goes: • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $150 • Travel and lodging for the family: $120 • Physiotherapy sessions: $180 You're what makes this possible, and I'll never forget it.