Executive Assistant Shares Financial Journey After Illness

In a recent entry in the popular *Money Diaries* series, an executive assistant from Ireland reflects on her financial adjustments following a serious illness that required hospitalization and rehabilitation. After transitioning from a full-time salary to relying on illness benefits, she shares her journey of managing finances while returning to work gradually.

This executive assistant, who is in her 30s and resides on the east coast of Ireland, experienced a life-altering medical event last year. The unexpected hospitalization and subsequent months of rehabilitation not only had a significant impact on her health but also on her finances. Despite the challenges, she managed to maintain her mortgage and bills, only dipping into her savings slightly during this period.

“I had to tighten my belt quickly and learn how to live on a lot less than I was used to,” she stated. Now back at work, albeit with reduced hours, she reflects on the lessons learned during her recovery and the importance of financial planning.

Financial Snapshot

Her annual salary is €37,500, translating to a net monthly income of approximately €2,500, excluding a 5% pension deduction. Monthly expenses include a mortgage payment of €600 and various bills, bringing her total monthly expenses to around €2,050. She allocates funds for essential services such as health insurance (€113), utilities (€400), and groceries (€350-€400).

Notably, she benefits from a temporary free travel pass due to her medical condition, significantly reducing transport costs. This adjustment has allowed her to redirect funds towards other essential areas, including a health sinking fund for medical expenses.

During a typical week, she tracked her spending meticulously, revealing a total expenditure of €390.16. This included modest splurges on personal care and a ticket to a show, reflecting her efforts to balance enjoyment with financial responsibility.

A Week in Spending

The week began with her enjoying a leisurely bank holiday. Although she initially overslept, she took the opportunity to engage in some retail therapy at Penneys, spending €23.85 on activewear and personal care items. Throughout the week, she navigated various challenges, including days when her health impacted her ability to commute.

On Wednesday, despite feeling unwell, she opted for a taxi to work, demonstrating a pragmatic approach to managing her energy levels. With her financial situation improving, she treated herself to a coffee and scone, spending €5.70.

Friday was a notable day as she splurged on a ticket for a Dita Von Teese show, costing €69. Although this was a non-budgeted expense, she justified it by using leftover Christmas money. “You only live once,” she remarked, emphasizing the importance of enjoying life despite financial constraints.

The week concluded with her participating in a Pilates class, which has been instrumental in her recovery. She describes exercise as a vital component of her physical and mental well-being, stating, “Walking by the sea gives me such a boost.”

Looking back, she expressed satisfaction with her spending habits, noting the significance of mindfulness in her financial decisions. “While money is essential for paying the bills, it’s no longer the be-all and end-all for me,” she concluded, highlighting a shift in her perspective on life post-illness.

Through her story, this executive assistant not only illustrates the tangible financial adjustments necessitated by her health journey but also shares a larger narrative about resilience, prioritization, and the importance of living in the moment. As she moves forward, she aims to maintain a balance between enjoying life and managing her finances responsibly.