I am attempting to raise funds to help with the co-payment for a life saving tricuspid valve replacement. Unfortunately,  HMOs often have not only high out of pocket costs but also co- insurance for medical procedures and I am no exception to this. The hospital is requesting a large percentage of my co payment up front to proceed with the surgery without me being in an emergency situation with time no longer on my side to get this done. I appreciate anyone and everyone that may be willing to help. I know times are hard in general at this time. We save to manage everyday bills for the summer when I am not at the district and we were blindsided by the medical expenses.