What can I do if hospitalization left me with credit debt due to inability to work and pay credit card bills?

I was hospitalized on and off for over a year due to illness, which left me unable to work steadily and pay my credit card bills (from before getting sick). They piled up until they became too overwhelming and went to collection agencies. My mom couldn't help because she was/is paying for medical bills and tuition from before I had to leave school (on top of her own bills). I'm back in school but these bills are lingering and my credit is ruined. Any advice or help?