Deb, whatever you decide, you do have support of plenty of folks here .

I'm just hoping for a good outcome for you - no matter what your choice is.

About the creditors: One thing that financial advisor Suze Orman (sp?) suggests is honesty. I don't know if you may have contacted the original creditors and explained the health crisis you're experiencing, yet they could be open to working out a payment plan with you. Don't contact any collection agency directly, though. I'd only deal with the original lender/etc. That's who your obligation is with, not a credit collection agency.

Another thing, possibly worth considering: Contacting a reputable agency that works to help reduce and consolidate debt obligations and deals directly with you and those you owe money to work out a way to pay down the debts. (There was a service that Oprah had featured and its name might be on her website; the one featured was not a rip-off service.)

I'm no expert when it comes to these things, so I'm just sharing some thoughts. Others might have more insights.