Juggling medical debt and school debt??
I'm a sophomore in college, I've been dealing with SFN and muscle issues for about 4 years now after a post-viral infection. I was diagnosed last August with ME/CFS. I've cycled through different medication combos, but the pain and side effects make it difficult to function regularly.
After struggling in person, I spent the past year doing part time courses after moving back home with my parents. I finished the available online courses pertinent to my major and am set to be back in person this coming fall. Between seeking treatment to manage the pain, as well as people who care for me suggesting specialists to find answers, I'm accumulating more and more medical debt. I have people who are staying optimistic for me though I sometimes question the practicality of seeing more medical professionals who either order more tests or suggest more medications. Currently I question the wisdom of continuing looking for answers/relief when I'm putting myself in more debt.
Additionally, while I get some grants and apply for scholarships, I have my student debt that I'll eventually need to pay off. Not being enrolled full time this last year meant receiving less financial aid. I'm expected to be enrolled full time this fall, but if I take longer getting through college I may have to take out additional loans. I'm an artist studying animation which allows for remote positions when working. I really like learning and making connections with people working in the creative industry, I'm just struggling managing my pain levels and walking these days. I am also anxious about keeping up with the course loads.
I'm worried that if I took off from school I'll have to start paying my student loans. I'm furthermore concerned that I would have trouble going back after taking more of a break. I spent a year after highschool working at an office but had to quit because of my health. If I'm struggling with school, I don't see how I could handle a job to make payments on my loans.
As of now I can only think to push through with school and my debts will be an issue for my future self assuming I'm able to manage my conditions better.
Sorry this has been a really long read, I would really like to hear other perspectives if you have experience or insight into the topic.