A Better Way to Handle Surgery Costs with Lauren Gajdek

Author: FaithFi: Faith & Finance
Published: Tue 05 Aug 2025
Episode Link: https://www.faithfi.com/

Have you ever faced an upcoming surgery—not just anxious about the procedure itself, but also wondering how you’ll cover the cost?

Imagine if someone stepped in to guide you through the process, coordinating the details and helping you navigate the expenses. Good news: that kind of support is available, and Lauren Gajdek is here to tell us all about it.

Lauren Gajdek is the Senior Director of External Affairs at Christian Healthcare Ministries (CHM), an underwriter of Faith & Finance.

A New Offering: The Complete Surgical Care Solution

As the nation’s longest-serving faith-based health cost-sharing ministry, CHM has helped Christian families with over $12 billion in medical bills over the past 40 years. CHM operates as a biblically based nonprofit organization, offering believers a unique way to meet healthcare needs—through the power of community, compassion, and cost-sharing.

At no additional cost to members, CHM has launched a groundbreaking program called the Complete Surgical Care Solution (CSCS). This service guides members through the entire process of having surgery or a medical procedure—from finding the right surgeon to managing paperwork and bills.

It’s a “curated experience” designed to walk alongside members during a challenging time. It's personalized, turnkey, and stress-free—requiring nothing more than active CHM membership.

A Real-Life Story: Chloe’s Journey to Healing

Chloe is a teenage softball player who struggled with recurring hip and leg pain. When surgery was recommended, her family turned to CHM and its surgical solution program.

Through CHM’s help, Chloe was connected with a top-quality surgeon for a hip replacement. The ministry even covered some of the family’s travel expenses. Ultimately, CHM covered more than $145,000 in eligible medical bills. Plus, Chloe’s family received a $1,250 credit toward their out-of-pocket costs.

The family described the entire experience as feeling like they were “surrounded by family.” That’s the kind of ministry CHM strives to be.

How to Qualify

The process is simple. Members need:

A diagnosis from a healthcare provider
A recommendation for surgery

If the procedure qualifies, members can reach out directly to CHM—and from there, the ministry handles the rest.

Whether you’re facing a surgery or seeking a faith-based alternative to traditional insurance, CHM offers compassionate, biblically grounded support every step of the way.

Visit CHMinistries.org/FaithFi to explore CHM’s offerings and see how this ministry can walk with you through life’s medical challenges.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

I'm in danger of losing my home. The mortgage company offered me a forbearance and a loan modification, but I still can’t afford the payments. Now they’re telling me to wait for a denial and reapply, but I’m concerned they might be pushing toward foreclosure since there's a lot of equity in the home. What are my options?
I'm the executor of my parents’ estate, which was settled about three years ago. How long do I need to keep the estate’s tax returns and supporting documents?
My daughter and her husband want to buy a house, but their credit has been affected due to some late car payments. They’ve asked me to cosign the mortgage. I love them and want to support them, but I’m not sure if cosigning is the right move. What should I consider?

Resources Mentioned:

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

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