So its been over 10 years since my husband was diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease and a lot has happened since then.

Once we got over the initial shock, we started to make small changes to make his life easier. 

And then I did the one thing that changed our lives forever. I claimed on the critical illness insurance I had set up for him – little knowing at the time that we would need it. It took me nearly a year to remember it was there and then we started the process. It could have been easier and I understand things have moved on now, so it probably is. But the upshot was.

CRITICAL ILLNESS INSURANCE PAID OFF OUR MORTGAGE when my husband got Parkinson's Disease.

This meant that no matter what happens next, our house is secure. We might one day have to sell it to pay the electricity bill, but for now, no one can take it away from us. When the time came, it meant that he was able to give up work without worrying about whether we would still have a roof over our heads.

I cannot emphasise enough to employers, if you do nothing for your staff – look at your insurances and see what you can do to improve those benefits. 

On a personal note, if you do nothing for your family - look at your insurances and see what you need.

Critical Illness, Private Medical etc etc. They are worth it – because you never know.

Happy World Parkinsons’ Day – I hope that whatever you are enduring in your life, there is someone/something there to make it easier for you.