I just want to share a letter I received from a debtor who incurred a debt nearly three years ago and never paid. We had to file legal action against her and the following is her response to the “Summons and Complaint.” The true names have been changed to protect identities.

In response to the 20 day Summons and Complaint filed in District Court I do not deny that this debt was incurred for my daughter. However, I am writing to explain why I have not to date made payment arrangements.

When I signed little Millie for services with the Dentist my mother and aunt each agreed to pay one third of the total cost. It was the only possible way I could afford to have the dental care completed. My mother fulfilled her end of the deal as did myself according to our verbal agreement. When the final lump payment came due I asked my mother to remind my aunt (her sister) of her pledge. Trusting the integrity of both my mother and my aunt, I assumed that the bill would be paid forthwith.

When I kept receiving bills, I again asked my mother — but at 84 her memory is failing. I guess she just kept forgetting to mention it to my aunt. And then, about four months ago my aunt passed on, having suffered a stroke while swimming. She was nearly 90.

My mom doesn’t have the available money now to pay this bill so I am requesting that in light of these circumstances, this bill be forgiven.

I’d like to apologize, albeit indirectly, to the doctor for not communicating this information to him sooner. I’m afraid I have avoidant personality disorder (diagnosed!) which is especially strong when It comes to asking for money.