financial assistance organizations

i have been wanting to have surgery for a couple years now.  i don't have insurance through work and i've been told i am not insurable because of my weight.  thus i would be a self pay patient. i have several co-morbidities and my quality of life is diminishing.  are there organizations in tennessee that help people get this surgery? i don't think i could get it financed with the shape my ex-hubby left my credit in.  i'm desperate.  i'm tired of feeling sick and being in pain all the time. any guidance or info would be greatly appreciated.  thanks in advance. 

Melissa,  I spent 5 years looking to have surgery before being able to get it (9/10/07). In that time I found no organization to assist with paying for it. The only way that I found in TN was to be delared dissabled. Both Medicaid and Medicare cover the surgery. If your not willing to do that you may want to try and asking the places in your area if there is any finacial assistance. Often centers have ideas to help with payment don't be afraid to ask. Just one last thought i discovered durring my looking that you have decide between your pride and possible having surgery. Good luck, I wish you the best. Keith

Hi Melissa. I am not fimilar  with orginzations that will cover it either. However, have you thought about working with the hospital to make payments. I am not sure which ones will but it may be possible that they will work with you. I know Vanderbilt refers people to PFS for "financing" the surgery. It is for medical procedures using reduced interest rates. Here is the link for that http://www.p-f-s.com/. Whatever you do, if you are determined to go through with this surgery, do not give up. I hope you find a way. Good luck.

Check to see if your area has a Vocational Rehabilitation Center.   Talk with them,  they have offered assistance before in our area.  Good Luck

thank you all.  i will keep looking.  i'm so glad i found this board.