Getting There
I was immortal until I filled out a life insurance policy application and received the results of my laboratory test. I was “rated”. It meant I was “substandard”. I was not sure I liked the sound of that.
SUBSTANDARD – below average insurability. Acceptable but on modified basis or at increased premium rates. Certain hazardous occupations, physical impairments, unfavorable conditions or personal and family history may cause higher rates of death or higher mortality than normal and will necessitate acceptance of any applicant only on modified basis or at an increased rate. These cases are normally referred to as substandard risks.
I was floored by this realization. I need to pay a higher premium and I could die.
I tried to find out what my laboratory tests meant. But several additional tests and doctors and google could not satisfactorily explain what an elevated reading of an enzyme meant or what causes it or what will happen to me. Head hung low, I paid up. At least I was insurable. There was no other way to go but face the truth and try to be healthy. And hopefully reverse my “rating”.
Because what will I do with all my wealth when I could not live long enough to enjoy it.