Your ex is feeding you a line of BS hoping you won't know the difference. As Aaron said, the bankruptcy only prevents collection efforts, it does not relieve him of his obligation to pay. You should consult a local bankruptcy attorney so that he can ask the Court to include the arrearage and medical expenses (and ask for your attorneys fees) in the Chapter 13 plan. If he truly has converted to Ch 7, there is no "5 year" delay and no repayment plan. He is still obligated for the debt.....he's only protected from judgments for garnishment or other collections efforts while the case is pending....which can be a little as 90 days in a Chapter 7. If you can't afford an attorney retainer, contact your local bar association for a list of attorneys who may be willing to represent you pro bono.