Asbestos has been used for industrial and domestic purposes for hundreds of years and many of its dangers were recognised many years ago. Despite this it is only in recent times that the use of this material has been outlawed in the developed world.
Many people have been exposed to asbestos fibres either in the workplace, at school, when riding on public transport and in the home, and any exposure to the material can cause a disease process that may prove extremely incapacitation or fatal. The diseases are caused as the asbestos fibres lodge in the lung, penetrate cells and damage their DNA. This can lead to lung plaques, asbestosis, bronchial cancer and Mesothelioma. Sometimes it can take forty years or more between exposure and the appearance of disease symptoms.
Many people when they are diagnosed with Mesothelioma are initially shocked and confused. Many are surprised that they have been exposed to asbestos at some time in their lives.
Andrew was an architect. He ran his own company, which specialised in the restoration of ancient buildings and listed properties. He was a very kind and gentle man but had also been very successful and lived with his family in a large house in Surrey.
The first thing he noticed was a shortness of breath, and he found that just mild exercise such as walking up a steep incline left him breathless. He was very worried about this, as he had always kept himself fit and he considered himself to be athletic for his age; he was in his mid fifties. Concerned that he might have problems with his heart he visited his doctor. His doctor was also concerned and sent Andrew for a chest x-ray.
The x-ray showed that his right lung was affected and he was given a CT scan, a needle biopsy and blood tests. By the time the results came through confirming Mesothelioma Andrew had developed a persistent cough.
With his wife he visited a Mesothelioma specialist and discussed his treatment options. They decided against radical surgery and they decided to make the best of the remaining days they had together.
In order to provide for his family after his death, the family contacted a solicitor and embarked on an asbestos claim. Given the nature of Andrew’s business putting together a history of his exposure to asbestos was a difficult task, however a Mesothelioma claim was eventually made. Unfortunately Andrew died before the claim was concluded, but eventually his widow received asbestos compensation.
Anyone unfortunate enough to be diagnosed with Mesothelioma should contact a solicitor as soon as they are able. An excellent resource that can provide help and advice on this is Mesothelioma Matters.