Insurance Company Faces Backlash for Denying Dying Cancer Patient’s Claim

An insurance company has come under fire for its decision regarding a dying cancer patient’s Life insurance policy. Shaun Pinkney, a 53-year-old grandad from Salford, who has been paying Life insurance premiums for 15 years, has been told by Aviva that he cannot cash out on his policy due to not meeting the 18-month requirement left on his plan. Despite being diagnosed with terminal cancer and having only two months left on his policy, Aviva has refused to allow him to make a claim or renew his policy.

The story, first reported by the Manchester Evening News, has sparked outrage among readers and social media users, with many expressing their disbelief and anger at Aviva’s decision. Shaun, who was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in April 2023, expressed his frustration at being caught in a situation where his diagnosis came too late to meet the 18-month deadline for making a claim.

Shaun’s case highlights the challenges faced by individuals dealing with terminal illnesses and the complexities of navigating insurance policies in such circumstances. Despite undergoing treatment and hoping for more time with his family, Shaun has been left in a difficult position due to Aviva’s policy restrictions.

In response to the backlash, Aviva stated that their policy regarding terminal illness benefit is designed to provide a payment to customers if they are expected to live for less than 12 months. They explained that the 18-month period requirement is in place to ensure that any benefit is paid while the policy is still active, which unfortunately means that Shaun does not qualify for the terminal illness benefit.

Shaun’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the fine print of insurance policies and the potential limitations that may arise in challenging circumstances. As Shaun continues to fight his illness, he hopes for a resolution with Aviva before it’s too late.

The public outcry over Aviva’s decision highlights the need for greater transparency and compassion in the insurance industry when dealing with individuals facing life-threatening illnesses. As Shaun navigates his battle with cancer, his story serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those in similar situations and the importance of empathy and understanding in such difficult times.