Imagine being disabled for 11 years due to Strep A. Think it can’t happen?

In 2013, Alex Lewis, a 42-year-old father woke up in pain with his skin turning purple. Initially, he thought he had the “man flu,” but five weeks later, his organs began to shut down. Doctors discovered he had contracted Strep A toxic shock syndrome, septicemia, and necrotizing fasciitis. To save his life, they had to amputate both his arms and legs.

After six months in the hospital and 18 operations, including lip reconstruction, he was finally released. He revealed that it costs him nearly $85,000 to $110,000 a year to maintain his wheelchair and prosthetics.

While this is an extreme case, many disabilities can be severe. However, there is a way to secure additional monthly benefits in such situations. You can opt for a Catastrophic Rider, which provides extra benefits if you lose the ability to perform two Activities of Daily Living. This rider is relatively inexpensive to add and can be very worthwhile.