Help Ms. Wendy Get a New Hip!

Hi! I'm Ms. Wendy and I'm the Education Director, Preschool Director and Preschool Teacher at a small community organization in Naperville! I've been part of this organization since my own children were in the preschool program almost 20 years ago. I love everything about it!

Over the years, I have been suffering from arthritis in both of my hips. (Thank you, Dad!) The doctors always told me, "You will know when it's time to replace them." Well, it's time. I have very limited range of motion. I am unsteady on my feet. And, I'm in pain pretty much 24/7.

My current position has me working 6 days a week as I run both the Religious School and the Preschool, however, due to the size of our staff, they are unable to provide health insurance. I've had health insurance through the Marketplace, but my premiums were astronomical and didn't cover much of anything (including preventative care or my current medications.) I ended up taking on a part-time job that offers health insurance.

After being at this job for a month, and my insurance kicked in, I found out that the "part-time" insurance does not cover surgical procedures. Of course! At least the premiums are much more affordable and it is covering my medications, but the surgery is a no-go. I've done research with my doctor's office and the hospital to see if I qualify for "Charity Care" but, unfortunately, hip replacements are considered an elective surgery.

My only option at this point is to pay for my surgery out of pocket. I need to have this surgery as my quality of life has been affected in every way. (There are days I can barely make it up the stairs in my home.)

I am a very humble person and hate to be in this position. I was encouraged by others to put out this ask. So, here I am asking...any help would be greatly appreciated.