It feels like yesterday when I attended my first Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF) Symposium on Malignant Mesothelioma in 2004, as I was seeking medical information for my husband, Alan. Alone, isolated and in pain, I joined others who understood. There was an unspoken language between us and immeasurable compassion. I returned home with more than a binder of information; I left with a new family of friends. Community for both the patient and family is essential – to not only enrich our quality of life but to develop and improve treatment.
I haven’t missed a symposium yet and long to reconnect with old friends and make new ones, hear about the clinical trials funded by MARF, and learn of advances in treatment. We all know the most effective weapon we have in the fight against asbestos is our solidarity in advancing education, promoting advocacy, strengthening community and of course, increasing funding for a cure.
I am excited to celebrate community, education, and advocacy when I return to Washington, D.C. for the 8th annual symposium on June 24 when I receive the Bruce Vento Hope Builder Award, named in honor of Congressman Vento, a heroic advocate for the asbestos awareness community. Congressman Vento was truly inspirational champion to all of us. On behalf of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization, I would like to thank MARF for this prestigious honor and recommit our ADAO collaborative efforts to eliminate all asbestos-caused diseases.
In unity,
Linda Reinstein (Facebook)
View Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation’s Press Release: Bruce Vento Hope Builder Award
