Georgia Mom Overwhelmed by Daughter's Medical Costs

Cassenda Nelson struggles to afford insurance and care for her 16-year-old daughter's serious health issues.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Cassenda Nelson, a 47-year-old single mother of four in Camilla, Georgia, is overwhelmed by the high cost of insurance and medical care for her 16-year-old daughter Amunet, who has type 2 diabetes and a seizure condition. Nelson estimates her family's medical debt exceeds $10,000, and she often can't afford groceries, rent, and other household expenses due to the ongoing costs of her daughter's care. Despite having employer-sponsored health insurance that costs $787 per month, Nelson still faces financial hardship and has had her electricity shut off from unpaid bills.

Why it matters

This story highlights the significant financial burden that many Americans, especially those in rural areas and from minority communities, face when trying to afford healthcare and insurance for themselves and their families. It underscores the challenges of navigating the complex healthcare system and the difficult tradeoffs families have to make between medical costs and other basic needs.

The details

Cassenda Nelson is a single mother of four living in Camilla, Georgia. Her 16-year-old daughter Amunet has type 2 diabetes and a seizure condition, requiring daily insulin, medications, frequent emergency room visits, and extensive medical care. Despite having employer-sponsored health insurance that costs $787 per month, Nelson estimates her family's medical debt exceeds $10,000. The ongoing costs of Amunet's care have forced Nelson to make difficult choices, including cutting back on groceries, falling behind on rent and utility bills, and stopping contributions to her son's college tuition. Nelson's credit score has also been negatively impacted by the medical debt, making it harder for her to secure housing and transportation.

  • Amunet developed type 2 diabetes and a seizure condition in 2020.
  • Nelson has been paying $787 per month for her family's health insurance for the past five years.

The players

Cassenda Nelson

A 47-year-old single mother of four living in Camilla, Georgia, who works as a community healthcare worker and is overwhelmed by the high cost of insurance and medical care for her 16-year-old daughter Amunet.

Amunet

Cassenda Nelson's 16-year-old daughter, who has type 2 diabetes and a seizure condition, requiring extensive and expensive medical care.

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What they’re saying

“Sometimes I can't even buy groceries. I make a certain amount of money, but I bring home very little because she needs to have the best insurance. When I was on other insurances, I kept getting issues with pre-authorization. I couldn't even get my baby insulin.”

— Cassenda Nelson (Business Insider)

“I feel heavy every day getting up. I have to literally pray, 'God, please don't let Amunet have a seizure. I need to go to work, please.'”

— Cassenda Nelson (Business Insider)

The takeaway

This story highlights the significant financial and emotional toll that high healthcare costs can have on families, even those with health insurance. It underscores the need for more affordable and accessible healthcare options, as well as greater support for families managing chronic health conditions.