For Immediate Release: Friday, December 16, 2011

Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) Announces Honorees and Keynote Speaker for the 8th Annual International Asbestos Awareness Conference

Recognition to be given at the 2012 event for outstanding work and dedication to the cause of asbestos awareness

Redondo Beach, CA … December 16, 2011— The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO), which combines education, advocacy, and community initiatives as a leading asbestos victims’ voice worldwide, announced its honorees and keynote speaker for the 8th Annual International Asbestos Awareness Conference, Asbestos: An International Public Health Crisis, to be held March 30–April 1, 2012 in Los Angeles, CA (Conference Registration).  The conference brings together renowned experts and asbestos victims in a united forum to enhance asbestos awareness, education, treatment, and collaboration.  The conference is made possible with the partnership of the Environmental Information Association (EIA) and Independent Asbestos Training Providers (IATP).

Matt Peacock, the 2012 ADAO International Asbestos Awareness Conference keynote speaker, is an award-winning journalist with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, where he has worked for a wide range of TV and radio news programs.  Matt first warned the public about the dangers of the former Australian asbestos manufacturer’s empire in an award-winning radio series in 1977.  He has followed the tragic asbestos trail for more than 30 years: from the company′s factories where workers had asbestos ‘snowball’ fights, to the mine where Aboriginal children played in the tailings, and into thousands of homes where asbestos now threatens home renovators, not just from their fibro walls and ceilings, but from the dust that still lurks under their carpets.  Most recently, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation ran Matt’s report on India’s toxic asbestos trade.

Each year, ADAO’s conference recognizes outstanding individuals and organizations from around the world that serve as a voice for asbestos victims, raising awareness and advocating for a worldwide ban of asbestos.  ADAO is delighted to announce this year’s esteemed honorees.

The 2012 Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization Honorees:

U.S. Representative Steve Cohen will be presented with the Tribute of Hope Award for his steadfast commitment and determination to ban asbestos.

Dr. Richard Lemen will be recognized with the Dr. Irving Selikoff Lifetime Achievement Award in honor of his tireless dedication to increasing asbestos awareness to eliminate diseases and unending support of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization.

Dr. Arthur Frank will be recognized with the Dr. Irving Selikoff Lifetime Achievement Award in honor of his tireless dedication to increasing asbestos awareness to eliminate diseases and unending support of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization.

Joel Shufro will be presented with the Tribute of Inspiration Award for his untiring efforts to protect workers occupational safety and health, especially in regards to asbestos exposure.

Associazione Familiari Vittime Amianto (AFEVA) will receive the Tribute of Unity Award for its relentless efforts, both nationally and internationally, to protect human rights and seek justice for victims and their families.

Debbie Brewer, a mesothelioma patient, will be recognized with The Alan Reinstein Award for her commitment to education, advocacy, and support to countless patients and families.

Larry Davis, a mesothelioma patient, will be recognized with The Alan Reinstein Award for his commitment to education, advocacy, and support to countless patients and families.

“Our annual international conferences drive home the importance of the need for increased awareness, education, advocacy, and community support,” stated Linda Reinstein, President/CEO and Co-Founder of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization. “We are again honored to have the opportunity to bring together some of the world’s most renowned experts while recognizing some of the most influential leaders in the battle against asbestos exposure.  Tragically, more than 107,000 people will die this year from asbestos-related diseases and prevention remains the only cure for deadly asbestos-caused diseases, but these true asbestos awareness heroes prove that together, change is possible.”

Conference presentations will include advances in diagnosing and treating asbestos-related diseases, preventing asbestos exposure in the home and workplace, patient resources, and a global advocacy session.

Online registration is available at our website.

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About Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization
Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) was founded by asbestos victims and their families in 2004.   ADAO seeks to give asbestos victims and concerned citizens a united voice to raise public awareness about the dangers of asbestos exposure. ADAO is an independent global organization dedicated to preventing asbestos-related diseases through education, advocacy and community.  For more information visit www.asbestosdiseaseawareness.org.

Media Contact:
Doug Larkin
Director of Communications
Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO)
(202) 391-1546
doug@asbestosdiseaseawareness.org