Please Help Me Walk Again!

I am a father of 4 and grandfather of one who has always worked hard to make a better life for my family and at the same time given back to my community thru several organizations especially my Moose Lodge. At least until the last 6 months when my health started getting in the way. Last May I started having some minor knee pain and stiffness which I initially tried treating myself with meds and wraps. When I had to start using a cane to walk last July I decided it was time to go to the Dr. In the last year I have dealt with 3 different specialists, numerous Xrays, several MRIs, physical therapy, cortisone shots, and pain meds. Finally in June of this year they figured out the bones in my knee were deteriorating. Now it has been determined that I need a full knee replacement and possibly rods in my upper and lower leg bones for stability because the damage spread farther than just the knee area. The surgeon also said it needs to be done ASAP for fear my weakened bones may break under pressure. I have insurance and the Ortho surgeon has been approved but they are requiring a $1500 down payment before they will even schedule the procedure. Because of my inability to walk except short distances I have been out of work since January which has already caused great stress for our household and coming up with that kind of money on our own is impossible right now. I am basically pleading for any help we can get so I can get my leg fixed and get back to work before my family loses everything we have worked hard to get. The money will help us cover the expense of the surgery down payment and hotel costs for the procedure as the surgeon is over 100 miles from our home. Any and all help will be greatly appreciated and I can guarantee once I'm back on my feet will be paid forward! Thank you!