The Myth of Being Too Young
When you’re young, healthy, and building your life, serious illness feels like something that happens to other people. You’re starting a career, planning your future, maybe building a family. You’re focused on growth, ambition, and momentum, not a health crisis. But the truth is: illness doesn’t wait for you to be older or ready. It shows up without warning.
Just ask Willem van Zyl, or Willie as he’s known. At just 29, fit, active, and with his whole life ahead of him, he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. What followed was a journey of shock, treatment, and eventually healing, made possible because of one unexpected decision he made: taking out Severe Illness Cover with Old Mutual, just three months before his diagnosis.
Willie’s Story: From Ambition to Diagnosis
Willie was the kind of guy who lived in motion. A sport organiser, teacher, and semi-pro cricketer from Bethlehem, he spent weekends playing cricket, rugby, or golf. He had just started dating the woman who would become his wife.
Then one day, he was injured during a cricket game. His urologist immediately admitted him to the hospital the next day, and he had surgery. A week later, he heard the words that froze time: “You have cancer.”
When Cancer Comes Early
The news hit hard. Willie’s mother had passed away from cancer years earlier, so the diagnosis carried a heavy emotional weight. "The first thing you think is, how much time do I have left?" he says. But very quickly, the emotional toll gave way to logistical questions: What hospital? What care? Will I be able to work? How will I afford treatment?
The Role of Cover: A Lifeline in Crisis
Fortunately, Willie had Severe Illness Cover with Old Mutual.
"I had no idea how important that decision would be. I just took it out on advice from a colleague. I never thought I'd need it. But three months later, I did."
Why It Matters: Especially for Young Adults and Commission Earners
Willie’s story illustrates a powerful truth: you’re never too young to get cover.
Serious illnesses like cancer aren’t reserved for older people. Many claims at Old Mutual come from people in their 20s and 30s. In 2024 alone, 46% of disability claims (lump sum and income) came from customers aged 30–50. And 73% of all severe illness claims were for the "Big Four" which include: cancer, heart attacks, coronary artery bypass grafts, and strokes.
The financial pressure of an illness can be devastating, especially for commission earners and professionals with young families or new financial responsibilities. Willie experienced this firsthand. "There were weeks I just couldn’t work. Chemo leaves you exhausted. But the payout helped me stay afloat, focus on healing, and even plan for the future."
A Trusted Partner in Crisis: Old Mutual’s Track Record
Old Mutual isn’t just a provider—they’re a 180-year-old promise to stand by South Africans when it matters most. In 2024, they paid over R14.7 billion in claims—more than R57 million every working day.
The Power of Advice: Why You Need an Accredited Financial Adviser
Willie’s story also reveals another truth: the importance of working with an accredited financial adviser.
Whether you’re a young professional, a newlywed, or a parent with young children, your financial needs are unique and ever evolving. Having the right adviser means having someone who helps you make the best decisions today, so you’re protected tomorrow.
Recovery with Peace of Mind
One of the most overlooked aspects of being financially prepared is the mental relief it brings. Willie was able to recover without the weight of financial stress.
"It gave me peace of mind," he says. "I didn’t have to worry about how to pay for the next round of treatment or if I needed another procedure. That mental freedom was a big part of my recovery."
Advice to His Younger Self
Looking back, Willie is grateful—but also reflective. “If I could speak to my younger self, I’d say: don’t wait. Get proper cover now. Talk to a financial adviser. You never know what tomorrow holds.”
Conclusion: Plan Today for Peace Tomorrow
At 29, it allowed Willie the space to heal, plan, and continue building the life he dreamed of—as a husband, father, and professional.
Speak to an accredited Old Mutual adviser today. Get the cover that fits your life, not just your age. Because your health might be unpredictable, but your protection doesn’t have to be.
Watch: Willie’s Wake-Up Call
Old Mutual Life Assurance Company (SA) Limited is a licensed FSP and Life Insurer.