Ponyboy,
I hate money, and important issues that come down to whether there is enough or not to do what is necessary.

You cannot put a pricetag on life, or the quality of it.
It has also been mentioned to me, that the amount of a hospital or doctor bill can be negotiated, depending on the circumstances.
If this were your daughter, it wouldn't be a question as to what to do, you would just do what was necesary and find a way to deal with the cost.
You are just as worth it, plus, she NEEDS you.

I would get opinions about conservative therapy, and opinions about surgery.
Ask your doctor, that if you were his son, dad, brother, etc, what he would suggest you do.
Also, I have heard that some insurance companies make you do the conservative thrapy before they will pay for surgery.

It is a hard decision to make, but your life, and the quality of it is just as important as someone who is 10 or 80, rich or poor.
Just my opinion, and I hope it helps!
Carolyn