(1888PressRelease)
June 09, 2008 - Elaine Williams, author of ‘A Journey Well Taken – Life After Loss’, was recently interviewed by US News And World Report regarding the financial aspect of providing support for widows and widowers..
According to the U.S Census Bureau, there are approximately 700,000 new widows every year. The emotional and monetary problems that affect those experiencing widowhood are staggering. This is no small problem, as 32% of women aged 55 and older are widows, according to the 2000 U.S. Census.
“I feel this interview is important to highlight just what type of support, or lack of support is available for widows and widowers in the U.S., especially women with children,” stated Ms. Williams, “Not only is there a need for monetary support, (incomes are many times halved or non-existent after the loss of a spouse), but there may be an even greater need for emotional or psychological support.”
The stress of dealing with a terminal illness makes it quite difficult to think about other pressing issues. In addition to the loss of income, other monetary issues the widow or widower may face can include:
- Joint bank accounts
- Life insurance policies
- Debt issues
- The additional burden of childcare
- Living expenses
- Last will and testament
“This is just a very small sampling,” added Ms. Williams, “Often, the financial pressure forces some widows or widowers to sell their homes and vehicles, simply because they can't maintain their upkeep or meet ongoing payments. Being forced to move in with family members or move to income controlled apartments can change one's life forever. Of course, there are many widow support groups and bereavement clubs available for lonely widows and widowers. These can help provide a measure of meaningful emotional support, and can provide information regarding where to turn for financial support. ”
Ms. Williams is intimately familiar with these issues, having recently become a widow after losing her husband of 20 years. She details her experience in her book, ‘A Journey Well Taken – Life After Loss’. The US News And World Report interview will be on newsstands during the latter part of June 2008. Copies of 'A Journey Well Taken – Life After Loss' are available at her website. Ms. Williams is available for media interviews by contacting her at the address below.
Contact
Elaine Williams
On Wings Press
Web: www.ajourneywelltaken.com
Email: onwingspress ( @ ) yahoo dot com
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