I am 34, and debt free, with 3 kids, 2 cars, and a home in the mountains that suits us well. I work full time, my wife works part time.
I am fortunate to have never had debt, aside from a house note. Worked like a dog to get through A&M and grad school completely debt free, and have done everything in my power to keep that going ever since. I believe that is the primary reason my family is able to do far more than many others, while we make less than many people. We make a lot of sacrifices for our kids, but we put our $ in things that last and things that matter. I prefer knowing that my money is earning money, instead of having things on loan that cost me interest.
Sadly, I think that debt is taught to our society as a "norm" or unavoidable fact of life. IT IS NOT. It is avoidable, and it can be overcome. And yes, just like everyone else we have had life rear its ugly head several times, with massive unexpected medical expenses, tax complications, etc... However, because we do without the instant gratification many people seek, and we save up instead of pay off; we have always been able to stay afloat and overcome.
I commend you on your efforts to get out of debt. Keep working at it, it will open up a future you never dreamed could be!