LIVE LIFE YOUR WAY

Despite setbacks and challenges, these women continued to fight, found the strength to move on, pursue their dreams, and live life to the fullest.

Life is full of twists and turns – some are expected, but many are not. Our health, living situation and job circumstances can change for the worst at the drop of a hat. And if we’re not prepared for the upheaval these changes can bring, we may find ourselves stuck, not just emotionally but also financially.

Women today are empowered with more options to deal with setbacks compared to the past. Having the right insurance and protection can provide essential support while we cope with the challenges. Be inspired by these two women as they chart their own path.

MELISSA YAMBAO, 34

Finance executive/breast cancer survivor When Melissa found out she had breast cancer, she was devastated. She knew she had to undergo hormone therapy, but she did not think about freezing her eggs – until her doctor suggested it. Since she planned to have children in the future, and was aware that hormone therapy may decrease her fertility, she decided to freeze her eggs to protect them from the damaging effects of the treatment.

“It’s a form of insurance – to have the option of starting a family,” says Melissa. “And I feel blessed to have the flexibility to choose my doctor and treatment. If every woman has that, it would be awesome. Insurance should not just help you deal with the financial stress and find the appropriate treatment, but support your dreams and aspirations, too.”

She feels she has emerged more resilient after this curve ball. She advises other women to do the same – never stop asking questions, evaluate your options, and have the resilience to continue to fight for who you are. “I’m very happy there’s finally an insurance policy out there that provides a payout for egg freezing, and I’m sure a lot of women will benefit from it,” she says.