A Troubling Question

To My Readers. Please read this disturbing e-mail I received, and give me your comments.

"Dear Dr. Kaplan
"While I could speak to many of your blog posts, I would like to present this situation for your response.
Patient: has worked in health care as an R.N. for 27 years; was required, by the employer to join a union for healthcare benefits; received great health benefits until a decline in health necessitated multiple transplants in the period of one year; maxed out the lifetime benefits allowed; desired to return to work but still owing much in medical expenses related to transplant; told by employer that because unionized no further benefits were allowed, whereas if not unionized benefits could be restored; back working and making a substantial salary once again; still no way to pay off former medical expenses; does not qualify for any "programs" to assist.
Double edged sword here? What is the answer for people like this who have worked, and paid into the system, and desire to keep working but for unforseen circumstances have encountered medical costs that are way beyond reach?
There must be a solution for others in this dilemma, would like to hear your opinion."