as above really, you need to get to the cab to work out a relistic budget plan, in order to approach the creditors with an offer. The worst thing you can do is ignor it or "forget" about it for another 10 years. you need to start doing something about it. i appreciate you feel you have nothing, but even paying back a nominal amount will help. Did you get any compensation from the accident you had? Having said all that, they cant take what you don't have, but you do have something, and i would imagine if you dont talk to them, they will enforce the debt in court and you will be ordered to pay back.
I have no idea why someone would pay for a tat, if they cant afford rent/food because you feel that having a tattoo is equates to having a life!