Susan, This might not be the case at all universities I suppose, but I know had to bring my girl to a university in my state because they were the most qualified to deal with the type of cancer she had (hopefully it is past tense...). I of course didn't think about cost because without them she would have had no chance and maybe only a couple months left; however, I found out that their services (not just in my case, because well in my case no other vet I knew could help her) are cheaper than most regular vets. I am sure that will be an expensive surgery regardless of where you go unfortunately. This might be a crazy idea, but do you think you could set up a payment plan with the university...I know you can do that to pay your tuition ;) I hope everything works out for you and Franky!! Jenna [Posted in FML issue 2827]