For almost 12 months I have been trying to buy sensibly priced travel insurance so that my partner and I could return to our property on the Costa Del Sol in Spain. Members of this chat group have been very helpful but nothing could have prepared me for the emotional roller coaster that has been even trying to get a quote. I've lost count of the number of hours I've spent on the phone talking to agents typing my details into a computer only to be be told : "Sorry we have to decline insuring you."
I had one quote of £1,300 for a three week trip! But the vast majority of companies, even those who advertise that they specialise in covering people with pre-e3xisiting conditions, didn't want to know me. It seems that algorithms rule the roost.
Yes, I know I have advanced prostate cancer; yes, I know I have high blood pressure. Equally, I know I have a replacement knee and have suffered in the past with acid reflux. And like millions of us in the UK I've taken statins for 20 plus years. But I'm still a relatively fit 78 year old who volunteers on a heritage railway and has a multitude of interests.
My cancer treatment is working (I'm pleased to say) while my blood pressure, acid reflux and other issues are all under control thanks to medication.
Today, virtually 12 months since I started my Triple Combined Therapy (Abiraterone, Olaparib and Prednisolone) a company has had some faith in me and sold me an annual European restricted policy for a year (My oncologist told me some time ago he thought I'd live three years and more if I was able to tolerate the treatment). I had a long telephone interview (they all are) Insurewith.com and for approximately £850 have been granted cover. I was given a fair hearing and was totally honest but now I can look forward to seeing our happy place in Spain and taking on that long planned tour of the WW1batlefields where my grandfathers served!
