EP LOOKS BACK: NOVEMBER 2007

Securing Your Family's Financial Future

By Joanne M. Gruszkos, Director, SpecialCareSM Program

You've now accepted the reality of the diagnosis. You've navigated a bewildering maze of medical specialists and insurers. You've learned a new language of tests, assessments, and therapies. You've taken on grinding battles with school districts. And, finally, you have created an environment in which your child with a disability or other special need can live productively and happily.

Now, ask yourself this one important question: If something happened to you,

your spouse, and/or other caregiver whom you depend on tomorrow, what would happen to your child and the world you've created for him or her?

Who would take care of your child? Do those people know that you're expecting them to take over? Would they know what co do? Would they be up to the task? Would they understand your child's special personality? Would they be aware of your hopes, dreams, and plans for your child? Would they have the financial means to

support your child in the manner that you would want? Would they be equipped to balance the needs of your other children as well?

If those questions feel overwhelming, it's OK, because they are. That's why many dedicated and caring parents understandably postpone, do very little or nothing at all in the area of creating a life care plan or preparing financially for the future. The challenges of the present are often so monumental as to discourage any thought of the future. Yet addressing these questions is a critical step in caregiving, not only for your child with special needs but for other family members and yourself as well.

Tuke comfort. With knowledgeable help, you can create a life care plan to put your family on sound financial footing today and prepare your family for a secure future tomorrow.

You're not alone in facing this need. Nearly seven percent of the population in this country has at least one physical, mental or emotional disability, according to the U.S Census. Many of these Americans require lifelong support and, furthermore, are outliving their parents thanks to improved care and advances in medical technology. As a result, parents and caregivers are increasingly faced with the prospect of providing support – even after they have died – to their loved ones with a disability.

Getting started is not as hard as you might think. Here are a few first steps to help you get going.

GET HELP. This isn't a "do-it-yourself" job. Preparing a life care plan for the financial future and security of your family and child requires specialized expertise and working with a financial professional who specializes in special needs is a wise move. In securing a financial services profession al. make sure the person you work with is qualified, experienced, and involved in the area of special needs.