There are millions of families in the US currently strapped by medical debt. Imagine having that weight on your shoulders, while still recovering from health issues, trying to support your family with through inflation, global unrest and uncertainty.

As we approach our 8-year anniversary, RIP Medical Debt remains dedicated to the fight to end medical debt. Since inception, you and other committed donors and partners have managed to abolish medical debt for over 3.6 million people with collective debts totaling over $6.7 billion.

A trip to historic Tombstone demonstrates Arizona’s recent history as the last territory of the American frontier. Arizonans still demonstrate the spirit of independence and ambition required to build both ancient culture and contemporary lifestyles in the scenic Sonoran Desert and around the Grand Canyon. That’s why the medical debt crisis is especially tragic in Arizona. Every dollar you contribute is an investment in Arizonan towns and cities.

From carefree Okaloosa Island to sunny Miami Beach, Florida feels like paradise. And when you’re living in an oasis, it can be easy to forget that many people around you are struggling. While others are saving for retirement in the Keys or splurging on a night in South Beach, debtors are forced to split their paychecks with debt collectors, working nights and weekends to pay back a debt they incurred through no fault of their own.

Most Texans have worked hard and saved responsibly in order to be financially independent, but few have the savings to cover an unexpected $1,000 medical expense. Even after insurance payouts, many are left with unaffordable monthly payments and savings that quickly run dry. Texans who normally would never dream of ignoring a bill are forced to choose between providing for their family and carving deep into their utility and food budget to pay off a debt incurred through no fault of their own. Without help, some will never escape debt.