(((Rose)))

I know that it's very distressing. I was in a very similar position when my disability kicked in. Social Security was a few months late, so I got a little chunk of money to begin with. I felt so bad, I sent it all to my creditors, instead of putting any into household goods that I needed to get for my apartment. Stupid! But, that's how bad I felt & so pressured by their tactics to get me to pay medical bills and a Visa card (up from buying food, meds, etc.).

One company were real jerks to me. Very angry-sounding and not real sympathetic towards my medical condition. I actually cried and worried that I was a terribly person for not having the money to pay the bills in full. It took awhile for realism to snap in, and for me to realize that I couldn't possibly do any more than I was already.

My ex-hub and I were still married, but we'd separated about 1 yr prior. So, we went and got a bankruptcy before our divorce went in to court (that way neither of us could be come after for money after the divorce). That worked for us.

I'm certainly NOT proud ~ I hated taking that step! But, I certainly had no way that I could possibly pay the money either. So, I slowly accepted it and let go of the shame associated with the act in my mind.

It is a tough part of disability, and takes a little while to get used to. Try local food co-ops in your area as well, in case you haven't already. Another tip: it was very, very hard for me ~ but I finally accepted no longer driving as well. {That came up due to my epilepsy, and I wasn't allowed to drive for 3 months, then 3 more, and yet again.} The cost of gas, maintenance, and insurance adds up to more than $200/month. That's a big chunk of my monthly check!

So, I decided to just keep up with monthly bus passes (free from my county social worker), keep up with my regular walks, and I'm okay. Something for you to think about anyway. (((((gentle hugs sent your way)))) Take care!