Posted on January 18, 2016
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 Kathleen, as shared by her daughter Carol, 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.
“It’s Been Like a Nightmare” – Kathleen’s Story
Name: Kathleen
Location: Australia
Date of Birth: 13-JULY-1936
Date of Diagnosis: 09-MARCH-2014
Diagnosis: Mesothelioma
Treatment: Chemotherapy
Date of Death: 17-AUGUST-2014
How has asbestos changed your life?
It’s all been like a nightmare and all happened so quick. We never knew that Mum had worked in an asbestos factory in the UK in 69-70. Even though we lost a friend to mesothelioma Mum never realised how he got it. We were all so naive but not anymore. My Mum was the most beautiful person you could wish to meet, always doing and giving to everyone. She lived for her faith and her family, nothing came before them. She had great strength and took her diagnosis so bravely that left me awestruck, she was do brave.
My life feels empty on many levels. I spent every day with my beautiful Mum from diagnosis to her passing, life was so busy and now empty. We had lots of special times with Mum since her diagnosis, we laughed, we cried, drank wine, went for drives in the hills and the beach, sat and looked at the beach, talked, had family dinners and had a “farewell party”. Mum is the first thing on my mind when I Wake in the mornings and she is the last thing on my mind at night, I miss her every day…..life is empty. I love you Mum xxx
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