Story perspectives

Survivors Push for Protections Against Genetic Insurance Denials

2/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

In Charlotte, North Carolina, breast cancer survivors Kelly Kashmer and Meg Robertson show genetic testing can reveal health risks and lead to life insurance denial.
Maria McSwain, a life insurance broker, confirms that unfavorable genetic tests or serious diagnoses hinder access to policies.
Kelly Kashmer advocates legislation to protect people from denial of life insurance based on genetic makeup.
They stress securing life insurance while healthy to avoid future complications.

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Story summary

In Charlotte, North Carolina, breast cancer survivors Kelly Kashmer and Meg Robertson show genetic testing can reveal health risks and lead to life insurance denial.
Maria McSwain, a life insurance broker, confirms that unfavorable genetic tests or serious diagnoses hinder access to policies.
Kelly Kashmer advocates legislation to protect people from denial of life insurance based on genetic makeup.
They stress securing life insurance while healthy to avoid future complications.