Why Critical Illness Cover Matters – My Personal Story
Why Critical Illness Cover Matters – My Personal Story
At Keyholder Mortgages, I always say that protection isn’t just about numbers on a page—it’s about peace of mind. Today, I want to share something deeply personal: why critical illness cover has been life-changing for me and my family.
My Story
In 2013, my world turned upside down when I was diagnosed with cancer. At the time, my children were just 2, 4, 11, and 14. Overnight, our family life changed dramatically. My husband had to stop working to care for me and our little ones, and I was unable to work too. Suddenly, our household income disappeared.
But here’s where I count myself incredibly fortunate: I had critical illness cover in place. When the policy paid out, it gave us the financial breathing space we desperately needed. Instead of worrying about how to pay the mortgage or keep food on the table, we could focus on what really mattered—my treatment, my recovery, and our family’s wellbeing.
Without that support, we would have faced serious financial difficulties on top of everything else. I cannot stress enough how vital that cover was during the most challenging time of our lives.
Why Critical Illness Cover Matters
It’s not just for older people. I was young, with a young family, when cancer struck. Illness doesn’t wait until retirement—it can happen to anyone, at any age.
It protects your family’s future. Whether it’s covering the mortgage, bills, or childcare, this cover provides financial stability when life throws the unexpected your way.
It gives you time to focus on recovery. With the financial side taken care of, you can concentrate on getting well and being with your loved ones.
A Message of Hope
Thanks to the incredible support from medical staff and the NHS, I’m proud to say I’ve now been cancer-free for over 12 years. That experience has shaped who I am—not just as a mum and wife, but also as a mortgage and protection adviser. I know first hand how essential these products are, because I’ve lived it.
Here's a photo from the Gazette with the family after our
fundraiser to supply toys, ipads, games and books to the
Colchester Hospital Cancer ward.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
So many people think, “It won’t happen to me”—but I’m living proof that it can happen when you least expect it. If you’re in your 20s, 30s, or 40s with a young family or financial commitments, I urge you to think about what would happen if illness stopped you from working tomorrow.
Pain Points I Hear From Clients:
“I’m healthy, so I don’t need it yet.”
“I’m too young to worry about this.”
“I don’t know if I can afford it.”
The truth is, the younger you are, the cheaper the cover usually is—and the more important it becomes, because your family relies on you.
I share my story because I don’t want anyone else to face a diagnosis without the safety net I had. If you’d like to understand how critical illness cover works and whether it’s right for you, please reach out. There’s no jargon, no pressure—just honest advice from someone who has been there.
👉 Book your free protection review today and let’s make sure you and your family are protected for whatever life brings.
Lois Holder.
Keyholder Mortgages
