Question

I received a letter stating I will have my bank accounts seized by the sheriffs due to my debt with a company I have never heard of. I called them to find they are a collection agency. The debt in question is from a credit card I have not held for over 10 years. I had thought this was paid off with a debt settlement company back 8 years ago. Like a fool after all this time I no longer kept the paperwork, thinking it was over 7 years and history. Last year I get a letter they found my debt and would contact me. I thought it would be with a payment plan, not this!
     Their timing could not have been worse. It came while my husband is in the hospital with MRSA, needing surgery. He will be out of work for at least a month at half pay. I do not work being physically unable, due to a tumor in the brain and the meds needed for it. Right now, between the two of us, I am the healthy one.
     Here's my question now. The bill is for $24,000. and I have no money to speak of. We live pay check to pay check as do most people. The savings went with doctor bills in the last few years and the replacement of the car to get to the appointments. We own our home, though it is small, old and mortgaged, what should I do? Should I write to them or call and offer an amount of monthly payment. And if so who? The debt collector or the credit card company themselves?