My partner and I have a dear friend who lives in Georgia who had a very life-changing year in 2010 when her world was turned upside down within a few short months. Her experience has left us feeling reflective and very aware that “life” is that thing that happens when we had something different planned.

“Mindy” and her partner of 14 years tried for years to have a baby. They are both successful, professional people who have more than enough love for a houseful of kids. After several attempts, “Baby Wyatt” arrived, bringing new joy into their lives. In fact, Mindy barely noticed her 40th birthday a few weeks later, completely absorbed in her new role of mother.

Not even six months after Wyatt was born, she discovered a lump in her breast. Her doctor thought it might be a swollen milk duct but encouraged her to come in for a check-up. Sadly, it was determined to be an aggressively growing cancer that needed immediate attention.

Mindy is a fighter and continues to battle her cancer with courage and grace. She is not out of the woods yet, but remains positive and full of love for life.

Cancer is one of those things we think will happen to someone else. The truth is that according to the American Cancer Society, cancer is the second most common cause of death in the US, exceeded only by heart disease. In the US, cancer accounts for nearly 1 of every 4 deaths.*

Other facts include:

• The estimated number of new cases of cancer diagnoses in 2010 was 1.5 million.*
• Cancers of the prostate and breast are the most frequently diagnosed in men and women, respectively, followed by lung and colorectal cancers in both sexes.*

I was recently attending the Nashville GLBT Chamber mixer and was talking to a guy who shared with me that both his parents had been diagnosed with cancer. He voiced his concern about the probability that he would face cancer in his own life given his genetics. He went on to say he wished he could get a cancer policy but was certain he would not qualify for one given his family history.

I was able to show him a supplemental policy that will provide coverage cancer benefits.  Any claims will be paid directly to the policy holder, providing flexibility in covering medical expenses or daily living expenses as needed.

People are surviving cancer at a much higher rate than in any other generation. But for those who face it, the cost for treatment can be devastating with long-term implications. You can protect yourself with regular check-ups and smart coverage choices. 

For more information, contact Licensed Agent Jolene McKenzie at 615-594-1564.

*Source:  American Cancer Society. Cancer facts & figures 2010. Atlanta: American Cancer Society, 2010