Since my last visit, I've been away on vacation without access to the internet. But I'm back and just wanted to thank you all for your comments / suggestions. Being able to talk about this openly with others has been cathartic and helpful.
Chino, thanks so much for the link. I think I'm going to give the insurance thing shot. I'm also going to try to find an attorney (anyone out there?) who might be able to give me some confidential advice on where I stand. Again, I can't say thank you enough to everyone for talking about this with me.