Work Your Money, Not Your Life

Chapter 14Protecting Your Wealth

September 21, 2016, began like any other workday for Sharon Epperson. Before heading to her job as CNBC's Senior Personal Finance Correspondent, Epperson had breakfast with her family, got the kids to school, and slipped in a workout. That's when the day turned into one that Epperson would never forget.

After experiencing severe neck and head pain while working out, she knew something was wrong and called her husband immediately. Once at the hospital, the doctors determined Epperson had a ruptured brain aneurysm – a condition that's fatal in 50% of cases and leaves 66% of survivors with some permanent neurological deficit, according to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation.¹

“Without warning, I was suddenly disabled, and uncertain of if or when I would ever be able to return to my career,” says Epperson.

Fortunately, after a year of rehabilitation, Epperson was able to make a full recovery and return to work. Nevertheless, she says that she benefited immensely from having an estate plan and the right insurance.

“Looking back, I am relieved I had the estate planning tools in place that allowed my family to make critical health care and financial decisions on my behalf, as well as the appropriate insurance coverage that ensured our expenses were covered while I was unable to work,” Epperson explains.

This may not be the most fun topic, but equipping yourself with the right tools to protect your human and financial capital is an essential step in any financial ...