In September 2007 I had surgery at the Samaritan hospital in Albany. The surgery saved my life. I have no health insurance. In the months that followed, I made payments in an effort to pay the debt. The hospital wanted the entire debt paid within 90 days. Since I could not afford this much money, the account was turned over to a collection agency.

I sent monthly payments to the collection agency. This wasn't enough. The collection agency has filed a lawsuit against me demanding payment in full. The only asset I have is my house. I am being forced into bankruptcy. I must sell my house to satisfy the debt.

My bankruptcy attorney has told me this is a classic case of being equity-flush and insurance poor.

If you read this, please contact our senators and representatives regarding this gross injustice. We need affordable health care.

I am nearly a senior citizen and I served this country honorably for three years in an Army uniform during the Vietnam war.

Thomas Weygandt, Albany