The statistics are terrifying. Mesothelioma, a painful and deadly cancer caused by exposure to microscopic asbestos fibers, kills over 100,000 people a year, often with a 10-50 year latency period between exposure and diagnosis. Those diagnosed are often given months to live and victims and their families often struggle through painful surgeries, chemotherapy, and – ultimately – death. So many mothers, fathers, daughters, friends, and loved ones have faced this grave reality. Most recently, the issue has come to light because of the devastating diseases 9/11’s selfless and heroic First Responders are now battling, results of the tons of asbestos and other carcinogens that were released into the air that day.
But the scariest part about it is that asbestos is still legal in the United States, despite the fact that the dangers of asbestos have been known since the 1950’s. It is still imported by the thousands of tons from countries like Canada, Russia, and China for construction materials and – based on ADAO’s research – everyday consumer products.
Larry Davis, a longtime personal friend, ADAO supporter, and soon-to-be recipient of The Alan Reinstein Award for his dedication to spreading asbestos awareness and fighting for a cure, is once again courageously “taking the fight against mesothelioma cancer to the streets.” Larry, who was also diagnosed with mesothelioma, is coordinating a South Florida Miles for Meso Symposium on Saturday, February 11, 2012 at 3:00pm and Run on Sunday, February 12. I am thrilled to speak at the event and will join other renowned speakers such as Dr. H. Richard Alexander, Dr. Raja M. Flores, Dr. Dipnarine Maharaj, and Kathy Wiedemer. Larry knows better than most the challenge in accurate diagnosis, treatment, and maintenance of quality of life for mesothelioma patients. In his tireless efforts to help other mesothelioma patients and their families, he has coordinated this event to spread awareness of and increase funding for research on mesothelioma.
Larry, ADAO applauds all of your hard work and we look forward to supporting your event!
View the official Miles for Meso flier!
Tweet #ADAO Applauds Larry Davis’ Effort to Take the Fight Against #Mesothelioma to the Streets http://bit.ly/vsBIVC #asbestos