gita:

I so much agree. we had to go through my husband's heart surgery without insurance, and I would have to tell my husband he was not to answer the phone or open any bills if he wanted his heart to heal.

in those days - 5 years ago - we were able to get most bills down to $25.00 a month - we are still making payments. I hope hospitals & doctors are still willing to do this. I did find out that it is better to talk to them rather than trying to hide, but I would suggest that somebody other than the patient do the talking, unless he/she feels able to remain calm. There are social workers at the cancer facilities who can help.

I am from Finland, and find it very hard to believe that Americans are not feeling stronger about public health care. I have decent insurance now, and am very grateful that I don't have the indecent worry on my mind that we had to live with when Bill was recovering. But I still know what you mean about credit cards etc., Gary. They all come after you and don't quit. You get to where you are glad when the phone gets turned off, because the creditors can't call any more.

Leena

Funny you mention that - my phone was disconnected most of this week and the silence was golden!

Thank God for caller ID the rest of the time. Once we file the bankrupty there will be a court order issued for all creditors to cease and desist.

I have some credit cards that are double the original credit limit with late penalties and interest. I would have been better off borrowing money from the Sopranos. These jerk offs call 7 days a week starting at 8:00am PST to 9:00 pm PST. They have yet for me to speak with them however.

When I visited Japan in 2002, I found out from my uncle that if he puts my name on our family registry, on the eighth day being there, my entire family is covered for free health care. Because my mother was a survivor of both atomic bombs, we even qualify for extra coverage in the event we are diagnosed with cancer and several other ailments. After all the battles with health insurance, disability insurance and life insurance this past year, it is pretty tempting.

Ed