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

In June I was diagnosed with a benign brain tumor. My surgeon at Saint Luke Hospital recommended valve repair surgery, and I have been placed on the schedule for October. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $710, and after what the public health scheme will pay, I'm still $500 short. Doctors at Saint Luke Hospital told me a benign brain tumor will get worse without valve repair surgery. I work as a farm laborer, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $710 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a farm laborer have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. Rehabilitation is expected to take about 10 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 $500 goes: • Physiotherapy sessions: $65 • Pre-operative tests and imaging: $50 • Post-operative medication: $25 • Surgeon and anesthesia fees: $320 • Travel and lodging for the family: $40 If you're reading this, thank you. - Lola