Maureen McBratney, Insurance & Financial Advisor

07/21/2026

Things I Wish I'd Done Differently

Losing my mom has made me reflect on the things I wish I had done while she was still here. Maybe sharing them will encourage someone else to spend a little extra time with the seniors in their life.

If I could do it over again...

❤️ I would have hired a cleaning person sooner. As we age, keeping up with a home becomes more difficult, and sometimes accepting help isn't easy. Looking back, it would have eased so much stress for both of us.

❤️ I would have started helping her sort through and downsize her belongings earlier. It's overwhelming to do it all after someone is gone, and I know it would have been easier if we'd tackled it together over time.

❤️ I would have invited her over for more meals—or made sure she had meals delivered more often. Sharing a meal is about so much more than food.

❤️ Whenever I was running errands, I would have called to ask, "Do you want to come with me?" Even a trip to the grocery store or pharmacy would have meant getting out of the apartment and spending time together.

❤️ I would have said "yes" more often when she wanted to do something, whether it was going to a Blue Jays game or just getting out for the afternoon. There always seemed to be another day. Sometimes there isn't.

And lastly...

The things that irritated me are the things I miss the most.

My mom would call me several times throughout the day to tell me little things that had happened. She did it because she was worried she'd forget if she waited until later. I'll admit there were times I was busy and found it frustrating.

Today, I'd give anything for one more one of those phone calls.

If your parent, grandparent, or another senior in your life calls just to chat, maybe answer if you can. One day, those ordinary moments may be the ones you miss the most.

❤️

Hold them a little closer while you still can.

07/14/2026

Most people don't avoid financial planning because they don't care.

They avoid it because life is busy.

Between work, family, bills, and trying to enjoy the time that's left, financial planning often becomes "something I'll get to later."

But later has a way of showing up faster than expected.

The families who feel the most confident aren't necessarily the wealthiest. They're the ones who have a plan. They know what's protected, where they're headed, and what happens if life doesn't go exactly as expected.

Financial planning isn't about predicting the future.

It's about being prepared for it.

If your financial strategy hasn't been reviewed in a while, it might be time for a conversation.

📩 My door is always open.

Send a message to learn more

07/07/2026

This week is a little quieter than usual as I ease back into work following the loss of my mom.

I wanted to share one of my favourite photos of her—her nursing graduation picture. She dedicated many years of her life to caring for others, and I'm incredibly proud to have called her my mom.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out with kind words, cards, meals, flowers, donations in her memory, and support. It has meant more to my family and me than I can say.

While there are still many estate matters to work through, I'm looking forward to getting back into my regular routine over the coming weeks. Wishing everyone a peaceful week ahead.

07/01/2026

06/30/2026

I wanted to take a moment to check in and share how I continue to support you behind the scenes—so your financial plan stays strong, current, and aligned with your goals.


🟠 PROFESSIONAL EXPERTISE YOU CAN COUNT ON
Chartered Life Underwriter (CLU)®
Advanced expertise in estate planning, tax strategies, and wealth transfer
Professional Financial Advisor (PFA)™
Focused on holistic planning, investments, and long-term financial clarity
✨ What this means for you:
Clear, informed advice designed to support your financial future—not just today, but years ahead.


🟠 ONGOING EDUCATION (SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO KEEP UP WITH EVERYTHING)
To ensure I’m always providing the most up-to-date advice, I complete continuing education every year.
Recent courses include:
• Maximizing a Shareholder’s Estate Value
• Life & Critical Illness Insurance Underwriting Guidelines
• The Importance of Individual Health Plans
• Insurance Without a Medical Exam (and its advantages)
• Wills, Trusts & Insurance Planning
• Shared Ownership of Critical Illness

🟠 HOW THIS BENEFITS YOU
✔ Access to current strategies and solutions
✔ A plan that evolves as your life changes
✔ Simplified explanations of complex topics
✔ Confidence knowing your plan is up to date

🟠 MY COMMITMENT TO YOU
My goal is always to keep things:
simple • clear • personalized
If you ever have questions or want to review your plan, I’m here anytime.

Send a message to learn more

06/23/2026

Did you know I can also help with travel insurance?

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a cruise, or an extended vacation, I can help you find coverage that fits your needs.

If you have travel plans coming up and would like a quote, send me a message.

✈️ Where are you travelling this year?

06/16/2026

Just checking in and saying hello!

Life has been busy with new opportunities, great conversations, and helping clients work toward their financial goals. Feeling grateful for the journey and excited for what's ahead.

06/09/2026

Most young families I talk to aren’t behind.

They’re just… unsure.
They’ve started saving.
They’ve opened accounts.
Some have insurance.

But when I ask how it all works together—
that’s where things get quiet.

And it’s not because they’ve done something wrong.
It’s because no one ever sat down and connected the pieces.

That’s the difference between having a plan…
and actually knowing you’re set up properly.

If that sounds familiar, you’re definitely not alone. Feel free to reach out and let's have a conversation.

Send a message to learn more

06/02/2026

Financial Planning Isn't One and Done

05/26/2026

5 Reasons to Review or Update Your Life Insurance

1. You bought a home
Your insurance should reflect new financial responsibilities like a mortgage and household expenses.

2. Your family has changed
Marriage, divorce, children, or blended families can all impact how much coverage you may need and who should be listed as beneficiary.

3. Your income has increased
As income grows, so does the lifestyle and financial support your family may rely on.

4. Your policy is getting older
Some policies may be approaching renewal periods where premiums can increase significantly.

5. Your goals have changed
What made sense 10 years ago may not fit your situation today. Insurance should evolve along with your life.

A quick review doesn’t always mean making changes — sometimes it simply confirms you’re already on the right track.

If you have questions about your current coverage, feel free to reach out.