Posted on September 26, 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 Derold, as shared by his wife Mary Alice, 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.

“Loss of a Soulmate” – Derold’s Story
Darold

Name: Derold

Location: Pennsylvania

Date of Birth: 04-APRIL-1939

Date of Diagnosis: 03-NOV- 2013

Diagnosis: Mesothelioma

Date of Death: 28-JAN-2015

How has asbestos changed your life? 

I am living alone for the first time in my life. I lost my soulmate of almost 54 years. I can’t help but remember that year of surgeries, chemo, radiation and his pain and sickness. We spent most of 2014 in Philadelphia ( 5 hours away from our home ). He was a special person who was loved by many. I knew nothing about Mesothelioma before Derold was diagnosed. He was a contractor that came in contact with asbestos in many different places and jobs. We need to raise awareness of this terrible cancer.

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