In November 2014, young mother and Vancouver Island photographer, Katie Muller fell from her horse, breaking her neck and leaving her paralyzed from the armpits down. Months of physiotherapy later, and extreme willpower she was able to gain a tiny amount of mobility.
The 29 year-old Parksville resident had purchased accidental death and dismemberment insurance from the Horse Council of BC. It would pay out $30,000 and provide coverage if the person suffered, “a catastrophic and permanent injury (or death) related to an incident where horses are involved.”
Her insurance claim has been denied. The insurance broker, Capri Insurance, sent an email to Muller this week stating, “Based on the medical records received, the injury does not meet the policy benefit and therefore we are unable to consider this claim for coverage.”
The insurance broker does not consider her accident to have resulted in, “a life-altering disability”.
This despite the fact that Muller has very limited use of her arms and legs and is only able to walk small distances and for very short amounts of time with a walker.
Her Facebook post which she shared with Victoria Buzz states:
“1 year later, I CAN walk with a walker. I’m so grateful for this, but I can only walk in the house and it’s not functional. My balance is completely gone, so I can’t let go of my walker to carry things like a cup from the living room to the kitchen. I have very low endurance, so I can only sit straight up, unsupported, for a few minutes at a time. I can’t walk long distances, like the grocery store or down the street with my dog. My blood pressure is still unstable so I can only stay on my feet for about 7 minutes. To do anything functional like work, shop, cook or daily chores, I’m in my wheelchair. This is absolutely a permanent injury.”
In a statement today, Capri Insurance said it is looking into Muller’s case, “We always advocate strongly on behalf of our clients and Katie will be no exception,” it said.
