Vikas's a partial thyroidectomy can't wait - please help us cover the bill

In March I was diagnosed with a cleft palate needing repair. My surgeon at Salem General Hospital recommended a partial thyroidectomy, and I have been placed on the schedule for June. The hospital's financial office gave me a written estimate of $800, and after what the government subsidy will pay, I'm still $600 short. Doctors at Salem General Hospital told me a cleft palate needing repair will get worse without a partial thyroidectomy. I work as a call-centre agent, and I have saved what I can, but the estimate of $800 is far beyond what I've. Until the surgery I can't work full days, and my hours as a call-centre agent have already been cut. Every week of waiting means more pain and a bigger risk. The recovery period is expected to take about 10 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 $600 goes: • Travel and lodging for the family: $25 • Hospital stay (5 nights): $420 • Physiotherapy sessions: $115 • Post-operative medication: $40 Thank you so much. - Vikas