Posted on July 28, 2015
We have been touched by asbestos in individual ways, yet we are joined together by a bond of community. As a testament to the strength of our global family, the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) is highlighting the courageous stories of our members with the “Share Your Story” feature on our website.
This week, we would like to honor the story of Barry who is a part of our ADAO family.
We encourage you to submit your personal stories by clicking here and following the simple instructions on the page. In sharing, comes healing. Remember, you are not alone.
“Nothing Short Of A Miracle” – Barry’s Story
Name: Barry
Location: Australia
Date of Birth: 30-SEP-1944
Date of Diagnosis: 22-MARCH- 2010
Diagnosis: Mesothelioma
Treatment: Chemotherapy
How has asbestos changed your life?
Having worked as a builder and handled asbestos-related products most of my life, I was not surprised when I was diagnosed with the terminal disease mesothelioma in February 2010 – I was devastated!
Living in Tasmania at the time, my wife and I soon realized we needed to relocate back to Perth Western Australia to be with our family.
The months following were difficult for everyone as I became increasingly unwell. By October that year I was a shadow of the man I had once been; on morphine for the pain, the specialists had given me only weeks to live.
It was at this point, my wife had a serious accident. The realization that she needed me caused my despair to turn to hope; the dark cloud of depression was cast aside and my life took on new meaning and purpose.
Five years on and through nothing short of a miracle, I am still around today.
Asked to share my story as an encouragement to others, in May 2015 we launched my book – Reflections through Reality – a memoir of my struggle with the reality of my diagnosis and subsequent sickness; the slowdown in the disease; the rare luxury of being able to reflect on my life, my relationships and my purpose as I face an unknown future.
Having experienced first-hand the loneliness associated with this disease, my wife and I have set up a support network for fellow sufferers and their families.
The Reflections Through Reality Foundation has been established to raise funds for medical research and to create further awareness of the risks associated with handling asbestos-based products.
WE NEED TO WORK TOGETHER TOWARDS A CURE FOR THIS INSIDIOUS DISEASE.
To purchase my book go to www.reflections.org.au. All proceeds of book sales go direct to medical research.
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