We often talk about “insuring our future selves,” but it can be hard to see the value in a monthly premium when you feel fit, healthy, and invincible. My cousin Kelly’s story is the perfect example of why that small monthly commitment is actually the most
important investment you can make.
Fit, Healthy, and Proactive
Kelly has been a yoga instructor for over 20 years. If you met her, you’d see someone who is the picture of health—she has always taken care of her body and has never had significant health issues.
Back when she was just 20 years old, she did something incredibly smart: she took out a Critical Illness Cover (CIC) policy. Because she was young and healthy, her premium was just £17 a month. For the next two decades, that £17 went out of her bank account like clockwork. Over those 20 years, she paid a total of approximately £4,080 in
premiums.
The Diagnosis No One Saw Coming
During the COVID-19 pandemic, life took an unexpected turn. Despite her fitness and healthy lifestyle, Kelly was diagnosed with breast cancer. It was a shock to all of us. During her treatment, it was discovered that she had inherited the BRCA1 gene—a genetic mutation that significantly increases the risk of cancer. Kelly had no idea she carried this gene when she applied for her policy 20 years earlier.
Because she set up her protection early, before any knowledge of the BRCA1 gene existed in her medical history, she was fully covered. She received a tax-free payout of £100,000.
Living Life on Her Own Terms
That payout changed the narrative of her recovery. Instead of worrying about bills or lost income while she couldn’t teach yoga, Kelly used the money to focus on what truly mattered. She used the funds to travel more and spend precious, high-quality time
with her loved ones.
I am so happy to share that today, Kelly is back to her normal self. She’s back on the mat, continuing her career as a yoga instructor and enjoying holidays all around the world.
The Power of Starting Early
Kelly’s story proves that “affordable” becomes “invaluable” when life throws you a curveball. By contributing early, you aren’t just buying a policy; you are buying the freedom to focus on your health and your family if the worst should happen.
Important Information
Individual Circumstances: The cost and availability of protection cover depend on your individual circumstances, including your age, health, and lifestyle. Premiums and cover levels are subject to the insurer’s underwriting process.
No Advice: This article is for information purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. We recommend speaking with a qualified financial adviser before taking out any protection policy to ensure it meets your specific needs.
