Real Life Stories From Real People
If there’s any doubt in your mind about the need for insurance, then take a look at these videos.
None of the individuals and families featured could have anticipated the challenges they would face. In each case, however, smart insurance planning ensured that emotional struggles weren’t compounded by financial hardship.
Life Insurance for Individuals
Dennis Danduran—Valuing His Wife’s Contributions
Jodie and Dennis Danduran decided to purchase life insurance shortly after adopting the first of their five children. While Dennis was the primary breadwinner, they also purchased coverage for Jodie based on the value of all her responsibilities. That planning made all the difference when Jodie died suddenly at 39. The insurance money allowed Dennis to take a more flexible job, cover living expenses, and save for college.
Dan Claus—Insurance Allows Dad to be a Dad
As a wife, business owner, and mother of four boys, Peggy Claus appreciated the peace of mind she got from having life insurance. Sadly, at only 48 year old, Peggy lost a battle with breast cancer—but having life insurance helped her husband, Dan, pay the loans, medical debts, and other costs that had accumulated during her illness. He was also able to take a lower-paying job closer to home and spend more time with his sons.
Joe Tyler—Easing a Family Tragedy
Right after Joe Tyler's daughter was born, Joe and his wife Caroline purchased life insurance. Less than a year later, Caroline died of cancer at age 33. With the insurance proceeds, Joe was able to reduce his mortgage, purchase a Connecticut farmhouse using equity from his home, and begin a new career as an antiques dealer that allowed him to spend more time with his young daughter.
Life Insurance for Businesses
Linda Bloomer—Building a Legacy
Del Bloomer, an entrepreneur with a growing business and family, knew he needed more life insurance—and his decision to buy more proved critical. At age 40, without any history of serious health issues, Del died of a massive heart attack. With the life insurance proceeds, his wife Linda was able to take over the company, purchase a new home, pay off debts, and establish retirement and college savings plans.
Brad Cunard—Surviving a Nightmare
Parents and business owners Brad and Lisa Cunard bought permanent life insurance early in their marriage both for protection and to start saving for retirement. Several years later, Brad and Lisa's dream of growing old together ended suddenly when a giant tree fell on the couple's car, killing Lisa and their two young sons. The proceeds from Lisa's life insurance gave Brad time to deal with his grief while keeping their business running.
Long-Term Care Insurance
Margaret Sweborg—The Will to Survive
Margaret Sweborg was always active and independent-minded, and wanting to maintain her independence even if her health were to deteriorate, she purchased long-term care insurance at age 66. When she broke her hip and nearly died thirteen years later, the money from her policy enabled her to move to a first-rate nursing home and get the care she needed.
