Let My Breast Cancer Story Be a Wake Up Call for You

I was diagnosed with non-invasive breast cancer in the spring of 09 and it came as a complete surprise. I have no family history and I was 41 at the time, relatively young for breast cancer diagnosis.
I was scared. As a financial professional, I often faced these intersections with customers. Now it was my turn.
Frankly, I knew I had adequate life insurance only because I am in this industry, but I'm still consumed with anxiety. One of the first thoughts that crossed my mind when I was diagnosed myself, "Have I enough coverage?" And if I did not, then what? Did my husband, Sean, and his daughter, Hannah, OK if something me now or if I'm the cancer again a few years from now?
planning your future becomes much more urgent when that future is uncertain. I know that 'there are many people who are not prepared and put off making decisions. it is something I have seen steadily over the last 20 years of my career.
I'm talking about my breast cancer because I think my story can be a wake up call. I've seen too many people facing difficult circumstances and not having enough life insurance, disability insurance or the money saved for college or retirement when the surprise diagnosis gets delivered
and this is the point :. See my story as a chance to look at your options and take action.
I should also point out that many women believe that if they have breast cancer, they are uninsurable. It can not be the case. I am very surprised that in a year of my treatment, I am able to qualify for the additional life insurance to protect my family in case of recurrence or other unforeseen event that may affect them.
If you don 't been planning or just want to make sure that your plans are in good shape, use a financial professional confidence because it is too late
Here are some tips additional :.

• Find a financial professional who you feel comfortable working with who understands your situation and needs.
• a request insurance your life never know what you qualify for, even with breast cancer history and / or other medical problems, or request an informal survey for a clear idea of ​​what you can qualify for if you were to make a formal request.
• Examine coverage for your spouse and make sure it is adequate. During this difficult period, it is important to ensure that everyone is protected.
• Work with your financial professional to apply for life insurance for your children to protect their insurability if they develop breast cancer or other health problems at some point in the to come up.

There is never an easy time to plan. But knowing that you and your family are in good financial health is one less thing to worry about, come what may.
Vlasta Duffy is a general agent with MassMutual, which supports the awareness of breast cancer, and a managing partner of Integrated Financial Strategies LLC in Scottsdale, Arizona.