Valve repair surgery for Antônio: covering what insurance won't

In December I was diagnosed with gallstones with repeated infections. My surgeon at Contagem General Hospital recommended valve repair surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for March. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $1,400, and after what the public health scheme will pay, I'm still $1,100 short. Doctors at Contagem General Hospital told me gallstones with repeated infections will get worse without valve repair surgery. I work as a care assistant, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $1,400 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 12 weeks. I'll not be able to lift anything heavy 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 $1,100 goes: • Physiotherapy sessions: $210 • Post-operative medication: $120 • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $700 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $70 With deep gratitude, Antônio