Member Story: David and Mary Jane Elliott
David and Mary Jane Elliott, Christian educators and Liberty HealthShare members, are initially from Indiana and Pennsylvania but have spent years overseas, living and teaching in both Hong Kong and Vietnam.
After planning to retire from their missionary work in Hong Kong, they were called in 2011 to continue their service in Vietnam by founding a new school, carrying on their passion and commitment to the gospel. They are grateful to be a part of the Liberty HealthShare community, which brings together people from diverse backgrounds who genuinely care for one another.
"We appreciate that Liberty HealthShare is proactive and helps people stay healthy through preventative care," said David. As part of this community, members like the Elliotts are encouraged to schedule annual wellness exams. Liberty HealthShare members can share up to $400 annually for these visits—unlike many other Christian medical cost-sharing ministries.
Living a healthy lifestyle is a priority for the Elliotts, and they believe Liberty HealthShare is the best fit for them. They take care of the small, manageable expenses and feel they are good "sharing partners" in a community that supports other's health journeys.
David views Liberty HealthShare as the ideal option for international missionaries looking for affordable healthcare.
Unlike traditional health insurance or Medicare, which typically does not cover medical care overseas, Liberty HealthShare members can access medical services and treatment from licensed doctors, emergency rooms, and hospitals, and share their eligible international bills with others.
“Submitting medical expenses in English while overseas has not been difficult, and the process feels no more complicated than submitting in the United States,” said David.
Along with an easy submission process, the Elliotts have found Liberty HealthShare staff helpful when they’ve needed to call Liberty HealthShare to submit a prenotification.
"The prenotification process is clear and helpful. We appreciated the care shown to us by all the people we work with when calling Liberty."
David and Mary Jane stay active by hiking and walking—averaging more than 10,000 steps daily on a recent trip to New Hampshire. They also maintain a balanced diet, enjoying fresh fruits and vegetables all year in Hanoi, Vietnam.
Spiritually, David finds encouragement in Liberty HealthShare's weekly devotionals written by Pastor Wes Humble. He believes they will resonate with Christians from various traditions.
"Whether Evangelical, Mennonite, Catholic, or progressive, there's something valuable in his messages for all believers," said David.
The Elliotts feel fortunate to have support for their health and faith from Liberty HealthShare members as they continue their life's mission through service outside the U.S.