And, while they have a solid base of savings, they don't have a huge safety cushion of cash. On Marcus's current earnings they will be able to scrape by, but without much left over. Francine hopes she will be able to find a new job, but her return to full-time employment may be a couple of years in the future. She is taking correspondence courses in business administration through Athabasca University and hopes to go back to university full time this autumn, then work in investor relations with a large corporation. But she knows she may face obstacles to landing another job since some employers may be unwilling to take a chance on an employee with her health history.
Insurance is a concern for the couple.
The CBC used to provide Cadillac benefits for each of them, including life and disability coverage. However, that coverage will end with their jobs at the broadcaster, and Francine wishes she had bought more individual insurance before she fell ill. She would still like to have children. But whatever insurance we can get now we'll pay through the nose for. You take your chances.