How awareness and thoughtfulness play key roles in planning for difficult times

MILWAUKEE, Nov. 17, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Knowing what is important in life became clear to Michael and Kim Jones after Michael was diagnosed with terminal neck cancer. "It changed us dramatically," Kim said of the diagnosis and the ensuing five-year journey that followed.

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click: http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7100755-northwestern-mutual-client-stories-life-insurance/

The family had just relocated from Utah to Arizona when Michael received news of his medical condition. He reflected on a decision that would prove critical as he considered his diagnosis: he had purchased life insurance.

While still in Utah, Michael met with John Johnson, a financial representative from Northwestern Mutual-Utah. As the primary breadwinner of the family, Michael reviewed policy options with John to determine what would work best to ensure his family was protected if something were to happen. "Some of our initial conversations were about having enough money to take care of bills, send the kids to college and be financially comfortable," John said. "I explained that's what life insurance is about. It's about having choices."

John got word of Michael's illness and he immediately contacted the couple. Those conversations are never easy but John walked the Joneses through the benefits of their policy, which included the waiver of premium that he signed up for. According to John, the waiver of premium benefit is like "insuring your insurance policy" because it covers the cost of premiums in the event of a serious illness or disability. Even though Michael was unable to work, he was still able to benefit from his insurance policy.

Michael couldn't help but feel grateful for meeting John, and for the care and guidance he showed his family.

"Mike was overjoyed by how John found him and that he cared enough to say, 'You have this,' because most agents don't have to do that. It meant a lot to both of us," Kim said. "Mike literally said getting life insurance was the smartest thing he ever did."

The Jones family's experience is part of Northwestern Mutual's ongoing Client Stories series, which highlights the importance of financial planning. See the video at https://www.facebook.com/northwesternmutual/app_125370697479676.

About Northwestern Mutual
Northwestern Mutual has been helping families and businesses achieve financial security for nearly 160 years. Our financial representatives build relationships with clients through a distinctive planning approach that integrates risk management with wealth accumulation, preservation and distribution. With more than $217 billion in assets, $26 billion in revenues and more than $1.5 trillion worth of life insurance protection in force, Northwestern Mutual delivers financial security to more than 4.2 million people who rely on us for insurance and investment solutions, including life, disability insurance and long-term care insurance; annuities; trust services; mutual funds; and investment advisory products and services.

Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company, Milwaukee, WI, and its subsidiaries. Northwestern Mutual and its subsidiaries offer a comprehensive approach to financial security solutions including: life insurance, long-term care insurance, disability income insurance, annuities, investment products, and advisory products and services. Subsidiaries include Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC; the Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company limited purpose federal savings bank; Northwestern Long Term Care Insurance Company; and Russell Investments.

To view the multimedia assets associated with this release, please click: http://www.multivu.com/players/English/7100755-northwestern-mutual-client-stories-life-insurance/

SOURCE Northwestern Mutual