Mikela's $2,600 bill dropped to zero.

Mikela, a 29-year-old social worker in Sacramento, has spent years helping unhoused and housing-insecure people get medical care. But when they developed excruciating stomach pain one weekend, Mikela had to face the very system they help others navigate. It nearly broke them.

Mikela had a history of ovarian cysts and told hospital staff exactly what was wrong. After a battery of tests, including MRIs and injections, they were hit with a $2,600 bill. There had been no upfront discussion of cost and no mention of financial help. Mikela was stunned.

Despite working in healthcare, Mikela had never heard of hospital financial assistance. It wasn't until they turned to Google, searching in desperation, that they found Dollar For, a nonprofit that helps patients apply for the aid hospitals already offer.

Within a week of applying, Mikela checked their bill like they had every day. The total had dropped to zero.

The process was easy, even from a phone. Dollar For asked for a few documents, submitted everything on Mikela's behalf, and handled the follow-up.

Now Mikela refers their own clients to Dollar For, people who, like them, are afraid to get help because of medical debt. Their story is a reminder that even the helpers need help, and that no one should fear a hospital bill more than their illness. Dollar For turned fear into freedom. Now it's time for hospitals to do the same.