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As member companies of the Council for Disability Awareness (CDA), a non-profit group dedicated to helping the American workforce become aware of the growing likelihood of disability and its financial consequences, Guardian and Berkshire Life are pleased to announce the launch of CDA's new Web site, www.disabilitycanhappen.org. The site, which is one component of the Council's public awareness campaign, seeks to spark dialogue about disability by offering a credible, company-neutral information resource for consumers.
"Studies show that three out of every 10 workers between ages 25 and 65 will experience an accident or illness that keeps them out of work for three months or longer, potentially leading to unmanageable debt, the inability to save for retirement or even personal bankruptcy*," says Craig Guiffre, Vice President, Group Insurance, and a member of CDA's Board of Directors. "This Web site is designed to help wage earners learn more about the realities and consequences of becoming disabled and help them plan accordingly."
Berkshire Life's Pat Morris, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, and also a member of CDA's Board, adds, "Most people associate disability with accidents or workplace injuries. However, the reality is that long-term disabilities are primarily caused by illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Arthritis, obesity, and back pain are also significant causes. CDA's new Web site includes many useful facts and figures about disability, real life stories, and tips for a healthy lifestyle. It is a very comprehensive resource."
To help families plan for the financial consequences of disability, CDA encourages everyone to complete a financial review, available on the CDA Web site. The review will help families estimate what their income and expenses might look like during a disability and provide them with a guide for developing a specific action plan.
*America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) Report, "Disability Insurance: A Missing Piece in the Financial Security Puzzle" (2004)
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