Posted on September 26, 2015
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 Annamarie 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.
“Fighter” – Annamarie’s Story
Name: Annamarie
Location: Utah
Date of Birth: 01-NOV-1963
Date of Diagnosis: 19-NOV- 2014
Diagnosis: Mesothelioma
How has asbestos changed your life?
In October 2014 while vacationing in Hawaii with my family, I was unable to walk 5 steps without having to stop to catch my breath. Upon returning home and having several tests, I found out that I had a rare cancer called mesothelioma. It is hard enough to hear the word cancer and then find out that your cancer was caused by asbestos. I have endured several painful procedures and have been hospitalized half a dozen times and had 8 rounds of chemotherapy. In May 2015 I had Pleurectomy Decortication surgery from Dr. David Sugarbaker, which saved my life. I am a fighter and will not give up until a cure is found for this horrible disease. I have been so blessed by the support from friends, family and the mesothelioma community in which I am proud to be a part of. I will not stop fighting or advocating until a cure if found for this horrible disease.
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