The Gift of Life

April is "National Donate Life Month". This awareness initiative reminds us that over 90,000 people are waiting for the gift of life. It gives us hope that each day, about 74 people receive an organ transplant and may go on to lead normal lives. However, 17 people die each day waiting for transplants that can't take place because of the shortage of donated organs. (http://www.organdoor.gov)

If you make the decision to become a donor, the most important step is telling your family. Most American's support donation, but few understand that their family will be consulted before donation can take place.

Just as much as you want to provide the ultimate gift and donate life, you will also want to provide the gift of your family's financial security. While you talk through your decision with your family, also take a moment to add up your monthly payments for mortgage, cars, retirement savings, insurance, utilities, groceries, credit cards, tuition and other important expenses.

Review your current income and determine if your family would be able to maintain those bills without you and your salary. Keep in mind that a moderate life insurance policy should cover five to eight times your annual income. We encourage you to sit down with your family, discuss these needs and take advantage of the life insurance programs that we offer.

It is recommended that you review your life insurance every 2 to 3 years as your needs change. As they do, so does you life insurance needs.