Coping Through Online Shopping

Mr Thomson was a senior civil servant at the Ministry of Finance until he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2013. Increasing problems with concentration and memory affected both his work and daily routines. He hardly ever left his dark, cluttered apartment in his wheelchair and no longer used his terrace.

Due to limited mobility, sadness, and loneliness, he began ordering large quantities of goods online, filling his three-room flat with parcels and purchases. At the same time, debts to online retailers and other creditors accumulated. His pension was no longer sufficient to cover both his significant care needs and the claims from social services and creditors. Without the appointment of a legal guardian, he would have lost his home and care service and ended up in a nursing home with substantial debts.

Within the guardianship process, the inheritance from his deceased father was revisited. A notary confirmed him as sole heir, an official certificate of inheritance was issued, and his father's bank account was closed. The funds were used to pay online creditors, settle most of the outstanding debts, and secure his ongoing care.

As a self-paying individual, contributions to his private health insurance were brought up to date, private medical bills were retroactively submitted to the health insurer and the public aid office, and a nursing care level was applied for with the medical service of the private health insurance. The apartment was thoroughly cleaned and reorganised.

This stabilised Mr Thomson's financial situation, ensured his medical care, and restored a living environment suited to his needs.