Hi, I'm Fatty McFatterson

Twenty years ago, I was worried about my mom, her finances, and what would happen to her if something happened to me. Yes, I already had a group life insurance plan through work, but advertising can be an insecure industry, so I wanted a policy independent of my job. So, just a month  before my 40th birthday, I got a $50,000 level term life insurance policy.

That policy expires on October 15. Now I need a new one.

Now I'm worried about the debts I'll leave behind, the expense of laying me to rest, and cost incurred in selling my condo and disposing of my stuff. By the time that happens, I'll likely be retired and there won't be a group plan anymore. I still want that $50,000 level term policy. I found a company willing to give me one -- at a higher price than I expected but, after I did a little homework, is competitive with the marketplace.

But first I have to pass the physical.

Gulp.

I know my gut is OK. I have photographic evidence of my colonoscopy. My weight is a big problem, but there's not a lot I can do about that before next week's physical. Then there's my cholesterol. I've got make sure that's down, or this policy will be difficult to afford.

So for the next week it's oatmeal and salad and fruit. The heavy, fatty foods I love so much will be consumed only sparingly (if at all).