Protecting Your Health and Financial Wellbeing
Cancer is one of those things that touches millions of lives every year. It’s not just about the physical toll—it can shake your emotional and financial stability too. Let’s take a moment to acknowledge what people living with cancer go through and talk about steps we can take to be better prepared for life’s curveballs.
The Reality of Cancer
Hearing the word “cancer” is something no one wants, but for so many, it becomes a life-changing reality. It disrupts everything—your routine, your work, your family life. For women, breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed, and for men, it’s prostate cancer. But the truth is, cancer doesn’t discriminate—it can affect anyone, no matter your age, gender, or lifestyle.
Thanks to medical advances, survival rates are improving, especially with early detection. But surviving cancer is about more than just getting through the treatments—it’s often about navigating the financial strain that comes with it. For many families, the costs of cancer care can go far beyond what health insurance or medical aid cover.
The Hidden Costs of Cancer
Even if your medical aid covers big-ticket treatments like chemo, radiation, or surgery, there are so many additional expenses you might not think about until you’re in the thick of it, like:
Travel and Accommodation: If you’re far from a treatment center, transportation and lodging costs can pile up fast.
Caregiving: Families often need to hire caregivers or take time off work to support their loved ones.
Rehabilitation: Recovery often involves therapy—physical, occupational, or psychological—that might not be covered.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Modifications like ramps, stairlifts, or even basic changes to make your home comfortable can be expensive.
Cosmetic and Comfort Items: Things like wigs, compression garments, or specialized clothing can help people feel more like themselves but are rarely covered by insurance.
All of this can create extra stress during an already difficult time. That is why it’s so important to plan ahead wherever possible.
How to Protect Yourself
No one likes thinking about the “what-ifs,” but preparing for them is one of the best ways to care for yourself and your family. Here are some simple but powerful steps to consider:
1. Stay on Top of Screenings
Early detection saves lives—it’s as simple as that. Make time for regular check-ups, mammograms, colonoscopies, and other screenings. Catching cancer early means better outcomes and, often, less invasive (and costly) treatment.
2. Prioritize a Healthy Lifestyle
While you can’t control everything (like genetics), lifestyle changes can help reduce your risk.
Eat a diet packed with fruits and vegetables.
Stay active and exercise regularly.
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol.
Protect your skin from the sun.
3. Build an Emergency Fund
Having 3–6 months’ worth of living expenses set aside can provide a financial cushion if illness strikes. It can help cover unexpected costs like travel or alternative therapies.
4. Review Your Medical Aid
Do you know exactly what your medical aid covers? If not, it’s worth taking a closer look. Consider supplemental policies that focus on critical illnesses—they can provide a lump-sum payout to help with expenses not covered by your plan.
5. Get Professional Advice
A financial advisor can help you create a plan tailored to your needs, whether it’s savings, investments, or insurance options. It’s all about being ready for whatever life throws your way.
Why Financial Planning Matters
A cancer diagnosis affects more than just your health—it can leave long-lasting effects on your finances too. In South Africa, for example, cancer-related claims make up a significant chunk of critical illness claims. While no one can predict the future, being financially prepared can help ease the burden and give you one less thing to worry about.
Having a safety net can mean:
Covering medical expenses like treatments and consultations.
Paying for travel, accommodation, or childcare.
Supporting your family through recovery and lifestyle changes.
Financial planning isn’t about being pessimistic—it’s about building resilience so you can focus on what really matters when challenges arise.
Liberty’s Cancer Claim Booster: Extra Financial Protection When It’s Needed Most
Facing the rising costs of cancer care, Liberty’s Cancer Claim Booster offers a vital safety net. This benefit provides an additional 25% payout on top of the 100% already covered under their Living Lifestyle Plus plan. It’s designed to support those diagnosed with late-stage cancer or dealing with a recurrence after remission, giving them the financial resources they need during challenging times.
To learn more about how this benefit can support you or your loved ones, schedule a meeting with a Morebo Financial Adviser to create a plan tailored to your needs.
Raising Awareness and Supporting Each Other
Cancer Awareness isn’t just about reflection; it’s a reminder to take action. It’s about prioritizing your health, staying informed, and being prepared. While medical breakthroughs continue to improve survival rates, the emotional and financial toll of cancer is still very real.
So, check in on yourself and your loved ones. Book that screening you’ve been putting off. Start that savings plan. And most importantly, lend a hand or an ear to someone who’s navigating the cancer journey. Together, we can make a difference, one step at a time.
