Question

my friend has a judgement against him from an insurance company for hitting a pedestrian who crossed against a red light and walked unto his car. Police came, no citations were issued, 3 witnesses corroborated this on the police report. He had no insurance at the time and was never cited for it. For whatever reason, missed the court date and there was a default judgement against him and he has now received a notice to show cause and has been informed to show up at court tomorrow and state why he should not be held in contempt of court. He has been in ongoing cancer treatment over the last year plus-during the course of the court proceedings. Would this be viable as a defense for the contempt charge? Will he face jail time? Is there any possibility for negotiation for the judgement? (approx. 17,000 dollars) This is taking place in Hennepin County MN I am a paralegal who legally can't represent him and am in way over my head. Help!