Posted in October 2012

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 Jim, as shared by his widow, Moira, who is a part of our ADAO family.

We encourage you to submit your personal story by clicking here and following the simple instructions on the page. In sharing, comes healing. Remember, you are not alone.

Jim’s Story

(shared by his widow, Moira)

Name: Jim

Location: Australia

Date of Birth: 27-APR-1940

Date of Diagnosis: 13-DEC-2007

Date of Death: 13-MAR-2009

Diagnosis: Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma

Treatment: None available – as terminal – only chemo in later stages for pain

How has asbestos changed your life?

Jim, my husband and soul mate, age 69, was still working and was fit and healthy. He loved his work. He felt a bit tired, so he went to the doctor for a check up – and following tests revealed that he had malignant pleural mesothelioma.  We had never heard of it – couldn’t even pronounce the words – but that changed fast. The next 15 months were spent trying to find a cure. We couldn’t believe that this very healthy man had been given 9 months to live. We went to Perth in WA for radiotherapy treatment. This helped – gave us 6 extra months.

Now, as long as I don’t think about it, I’m fine. When I do think about it, the tears start – just putting this down has started them off again.  Grief – I don’t know what stage I’m at – but I am grieving.

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