safety net caught him

Disability insurance allowed young graphic designer to receive cutting-edge AIDS treatment that saved his life.

Michael Stees was a young designer with a small Chicago graphic design firm when he first met Linda Gordon, ChFC, a Financial Representative with Principal Life Insurance Company. Linda was calling on the owner of the company when Michael approached her about his own insurance needs.

“I suggested that, as a young single person, what Michael needed most was disability income insurance,” said Linda. After a full financial analysis, Michael purchased a policy that allowed him to upgrade the coverage every three years without any medical requirements.
Linda and Michael didn’t speak as frequently after he moved to California to take a job with a publishing company until one day Linda received a phone call from Michael’s partner, Steven Rush, informing her that Michael had been diagnosed with AIDS and was severely ill. “I immediately contacted Michael to assure him the policy he purchased seven years ago would now kick into gear,” said Linda.

“My disability income insurance was my safety net, and it caught me,” said Michael. “The benefits helped cover my health premiums, allowing me to receive cutting-edge treatments that literally saved my life. The insurance also allowed me to recuperate without worrying about money for rent or food.”

Michael, who never thought he’d work again, is now working part time, and his disability policy provides partial coverage to supplement his income. “Thanks to Linda’s recommendation,” said Michael, “I’m once again living a full, happy and productive life.”