Posted on September 15, 2014
Lisa Rahe Thompson
The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) is very grateful to Lisa Rahe Thompson for organizing the upcoming Jammin’ for Asbestos Awareness concert on September 26 in Omaha, NE. In our interview, she shared memories of her brother, Bob, and her dedication to raising asbestos awareness.
Linda: How were you impacted by mesothelioma?
Lisa: My oldest brother, Bob, was diagnosed with Mesothelioma in 1998. With the help of the internet, we were able to find a great surgeon and took him to Colorado for treatment. Bob had a recurrence of the Meso in 2004, and was accepted into a clinical trial shortly thereafter. He did well until mid-2008. He passed away on July 30, 2008.
Linda: How did you get involved with ADAO?
Lisa: As a family, Bob’s siblings and Bob’s son, Brannon, we knew that we had to do something to honor Bob and to get the word out about the dangers of Asbestos. We did some research on Meso-related organizations and found the ADAO; we felt that their mission most closely fit what we wanted to accomplish – raising awareness and helping others.
Linda: What are you and your family doing to raise asbestos awareness?
Lisa: As a family, we are pretty vocal about Mesothelioma and the dangers of Asbestos. I try to educate anyone that will listen about the fact that we are importing it into the U.S. and that it’s still being utilized, whereby still exposing people. We are also holding another event this year, on September 26th, Jammin’ for Asbestos Awareness, a music event to be held in Omaha, Nebraska. We will be hosting 7 great acts – 2 nationals and 5 local bands. It’ll be a great event!
Linda: What did Bob’s mesothelioma battle teach you?
Lisa: We are not “untouchable”; Mesothelioma is not considered to be a Midwestern disease, but it is when it’s killing the people that you love. Asbestos is everywhere, and regardless of the fact that we all know that it’s a danger, we are still importing it and using it. I know that we must stop importing in order to stop exposing our loved ones! To get this done, we have to work together and be as vocal as possible; contact your Congressional and Senate leaders.
Linda: How can other people support your Jammin’ for Asbestos Awareness event on September 26th?
Lisa: Go to www.theslowdown.com to purchase tickets! Donations are also accepted. Even if you can’t come, spread the word and invite your friends through Facebook and Twitter. Mesothelioma has touched so many of us. People will be encouraged to attend when they know how much this matters to you.
Lisa, thank you for allowing me to interview you. ADAO looks forward to your Jammin’ for Asbestos Awareness event on September 26th!
Together, change is possible.
Linda