Travel insurance

[margaretm]

Hi,

My neurologist believes that I have some form of spinocerebellar ataxia, but MRIs and other tests have proved negative. I have not had genetic testing. I want to take a couple of trips abroad this spring and am looking for travel insurance. The sites which I have visited offer only drop down menus with very specific ataxia which do not cover my position. I use a walking stick but can walk unaided.

I have had breast cancer, nearly five years ago and declare this, no problem. I wish to be honest and to disclose my mobility issues.

Any advice would really be appreciated.

[lorrainewalls]

Hi Margaretm,

I have Cerebellar Ataxia (unknown) and was diagnosed in 1999. I have had 3 mri's and numerous tests but it is still unknown.

For the past 4 years I have had holidays in Chile with Easter Island, Bolivia, Falkland Islands & Peru. Looking for travel insurance is a bit of a minefield. Going "online" is a handy starting point. Make a note of their FREEPHONE number and talk to someone in person. Be specific about dates, countries, your age, cost of holiday (for cancellation purposes) and importantly, health issues. Because "Ataxia" is uncommon, insurance companies don't quite know how to compartmentalise it. As THEY consider most forms of Ataxia are hereditary, I am usually labelled Hereditary Cerebellar Ataxia but the insurance companies I have dealt with endorse their records as "Non-Hereditary". As I am now 71 and travel alone, my holidays are tailor-made and can be expensive, so the first thing I ask is "what is your cancellation ceiling", followed by my medical condition. Hence the importance of speaking to a REAL person. The reason I suggest a Freephone number is because it can, and frequently does, take a long time, so be prepared to spend at least 30-60 minutes on the phone. Depending on your age, Saga is very good and has a cancellation ceiling of £10,000. Staysure generally over 50 as well, but will cover people younger. Whoever you chose, remember that they want your business, afterall you may use them again.

Lorraine

[margaretm in reply to lorrainewalls]

Thank you, Lorraine.Very helpful.

[robo1]

Try Premier Care at markbatesltd.com. They have no age limit and accept ataxia. ~ Bob

[margaretm in reply to robo1]

Thanks.I shall look this one up.

[HarryB Administrator]

Hi

I thought may you find the following link helpful

ataxia.org.uk/News/insurance

It is a page on insurance from Ataxia UK's website.

I do hope you find something and that you have a wonderful holiday!

Best wishes

Harriet

[margaretm in reply to HarryB]

Thank you. Very useful.