Why is that judged as failure?), some ill-timed circumstances can change our financial futures in unexpected ways. I left a bad relationship in my 40s, just before the recession hit. As house values fell, my ex ended up buying me out with a small sum.
I married a wonderful man with a good income. He left his job due to some health issues and my husband suffered a massive stroke at 53, leaving him bed-bound, with brain damage, partial paralysis, unable to communicate or speak clearly, unable to safely eat solid foods, and in diapers. My income was enough to support me but not enough to have any real savings.
He lost his employer life-insurance benefit, and we hadn’t purchased a new policy. We thought we were still young and strong and had plenty of time to plan our future. I never expected life to throw me this curveball.
I ended up quitting my job to stay home and care for him full time. I am renting a nice house in a nice neighborhood, and we are comfortable. Though I would love to have a house that is mine, I am glad I don’t have to worry about home maintenance and repairs.
When my husband dies, I will be even poorer, as I will lose his Social Security income and will have only my Social Security to live on. I was able to get a $10,000 guaranteed life-insurance policy for him, which may just cover final expenses. Don’t Short Yourself offers weekly money tips to help you earn it, stack it and grow it.
I would like to receive updates and special offers from Dow Jones and affiliates. I can unsubscribe at any time. I’m not complaining, and I don’t feel sorry for myself.
Extract — continue reading at the source.
