Lifestyle

It All Stems from Love

Published

1 year ago

September 5, 2022

When she arrived in California from New York, Kathleen “Frankie” Francesca wanted to make a difference. Her dream job—working for a modeling agency in New York—had turned out to be an unfulfilling pit stop.

While supporting her parents, both of whom have diabetes, Frankie began to volunteer with the American Diabetes Association (ADA). After attending ADA committees and recognizing within herself the desire to help others, she decided to enter the world of medicine.

Meanwhile, the occurance of a family hardship meant Frankie had to sell everything she had. Her father was laid off at work and then had to recover from an accident; her mother had to stay home to take care of him and help Frankie with her daughter, as she had just become a single mother. There was something Frankie’s mother would say to her that rang true, even in times like these:

“As long as you are breathing, there is always hope.”

Frankie lost neither her hope nor her compassion. Her goal was to begin working at R3 Regenerative Medicine (R3), a company that helps doctors obtain turnkey operations for stem cell clinics. Starting out, she had no phone and no computer. For the internet access she needed to be able to do her job, she was continuously going to libraries.

“I couldn’t tell the CEO that I didn’t have anything,” says Frankie. It wasn’t until two years ago that she did tell them about her initial struggle and lack of resources. Today, she is grateful that the CEO of R3 took a chance on her.

Five years later, she is Chief Operating Officer, and Vice President and partner at R3 Medical Training. She is doing the kind of work that she came to California longing to do: helping people, educating them, and changing the way they live their lives.

“Doctors use [stem cell regenerative medicine] to avoid surgeries or help slow the progression of any existing conditions,” says Frankie. “Anywhere from diabetes to neurological issues and joint issues. There’s a lot that you can do with stem cells.”

Frankie is a single mother to her 9-year-old daughter, Valentina. When she isn’t at work, she is spending time with her. They travel together, too, but working seven days a week means that she doesn’t have much extra time.

“I feel bad having to leave her when I have to travel for work,” says Frankie. “But at least I’m leaving my daughter knowing that I’ve done something that I can be proud of, and she can be proud [realizing] how much of a difference her mother made in those people’s lives.”

Where R3 was once a small marketing company, there are now 43 affiliated clinics across the United States and eight internationally. They are opening their own headquarters and anti-aging clinic in Scottsdale this September, a clinic in Nashville in November, and soon another in India. Frankie is preparing for their very first Health and Wellness Summit in Temecula this January—which will not be without celebrities.

One clinic, co-owned by Frankie, recently opened in the Philippines. She is especially excited to start visiting this location; she has family there, and has not been back in 25 years. With the opening of this location, she will be able to visit a few times a year.

“I’m looking forward to bringing my daughter so that she can learn the culture,” says Frankie. She is planning a trip for as soon as January 2022.

Currently, Frankie is in the process of finalizing a memoir, which she has written to tell her story to both her daughter and generations to come. She is not writing the book with commercial success in mind; rather, it is a heartfelt gesture to her daughter, a vessel meant to preserve important memories. She wants her daughter to know her journey, including how she dealt with negativity on the way.

“Especially as a single mom, you know, being Filipino, back in the day, we’re kind of looked down upon,” says Frankie. “Getting to where I’m at now in life, [I’m] supporting my family, giving my daughter everything that she can ever hope for.”

Frankie moves through life with a big heart and an eye on the future. She wants everyone to know that they can achieve a lot more than they think is possible, if they do as she did: keep at what you’re passionate about, don’t lose sight of the bigger picture, and in her words, be “willing to sweat bullets.”

Lifestyle

How to Negotiate With Car Insurance Companies After an Accident

Published

11 hours ago

December 10, 2023

Michelle Langton

After a car accident, negotiating with insurance companies comes with the territory. Unfortunately, most people don’t know what to do, so they end up being taken advantage of by the insurance companies. We don’t want this to happen to you.

Let’s explore several helpful tips that will allow you to negotiate strategically and get the results you want.

Document Evidence

The foundation of a successful negotiation with insurance companies lies in thorough documentation. From the moment the accident occurs, gather as much evidence as possible.

Take photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect witness statements, police reports, and medical records to support your claim.

This documentation serves as crucial evidence to substantiate your case during negotiations. The more evidence you gather, the stronger your position will be when presenting your claim to the insurance company.

Understand Policy Coverage

Familiarize yourself with the details of your insurance policy. Understand what is covered, the limits of coverage, and any applicable deductibles. Knowing the specifics of your policy empowers you to negotiate from a position of knowledge.

Take note of your policy’s provisions related to collision coverage, liability limits, medical payments, and any additional coverages that might be relevant to your situation. This understanding will help you assess the insurance company’s offers accurately and ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to under your policy.

Hire an Attorney

You have the ability to represent yourself and speak directly with insurance companies about your claim. However, in complicated situations – or even simple situations where there are a lot of medical bills or damages involved – you’re better off getting some help.

“When an insurance company receives a claim for an injury, they do not simply roll over and pay out any amount that the injured person wants,” Parham Smith & Arcenhold explains. “Instead, thorough investigations take place. These companies have the resources necessary to look out for their best interests financially, which is why any injured individual should have the same level of legal representation.”

A good attorney is someone who specializes in car accident claims, has an extensive track record of successful negotiations with car insurance companies, and has been in your local area for a number of years. You want someone you can trust and depend on throughout this case, no matter how many twists and turns it might take.

Stay Composed During Discussions

Negotiations with insurance adjusters can be intimidating, but maintaining composure is crucial. Be respectful and avoid being confrontational during discussions. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be misconstrued as accepting liability.

Remain firm in advocating for fair compensation but avoid making rash decisions out of frustration. Take your time to review offers and consult with professionals, such as legal advisors or trusted experts, before accepting or rejecting any settlement offers.

As a general rule of thumb, an insurance company’s first settlement offer might only be worth 25 to 50 percent of the full value. This is why you should always reject the first offer and work with your attorney to negotiate back and forth.

Value Your Claim Accurately

Accurately valuing your claim is critically important for a successful negotiation. Consider all the damages incurred, including vehicle repairs, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs. Gather estimates from reputable auto repair shops and medical professionals to substantiate your claim.

Don’t undervalue your losses. Consider the long-term implications of the accident, including potential future medical treatments or the impact of injuries on your quality of life. Presenting a well-documented and accurately valued claim increases your chances of obtaining fair compensation.

Negotiate With a Strategy

Remember, insurance wants to settle claims quickly and for as little as possible. However, armed with proper documentation, knowledge of your policy, a composed demeanor, and an accurately valued claim, you’ll be better positioned to negotiate effectively and secure a fair settlement.

Sugarcoating this process won’t do anything good for you. The reality is that it’s you versus the insurance companies. If you choose to plug your ears and pretend that nothing is happening, you will get the raw end of this deal. However, if you fight back with the assistance of an attorney who has a good strategy, you’ll put the insurance companies on their heels and force them to give ground.

As a result, you’ll likely get a much more fair settlement.