Mesothelioma Support blog

Mesothelioma & Asbestos Round-Up: March 27,2009

2009-03-27T13:33:00.007-05:00

This week’s collection of news stories provides contrasting ways government and industry can handle asbestos problems. They can hide asbestos problems, or ignore the problem and hope nobody ever finds out. Then, if they are discovered, they can try to deny any wrongdoing. We call that “doing it wrong.”

Government and industry can also choose to acknowledge asbestos problems. They can warn people. They can protect people. They can support them if they are made sick. We call that “doing it right.”

Let’s dive into our first category:

DOING IT WRONG—W.R. Grace

The Libby Trial

Robert Locke, former Grace official, came clean about his involvement in the Libby tragedy. He revealed that he warned the company of asbestos dangers at the vermiculite mine as early as 1976:

“It was time to stand up and do the right thing…”

Mr. Locke, when under cross examination by Grace’s lawyers, explained why he was now testifying against his former employer.

Ash Grove Cement Corp. protects its workers WITH PAY. Our hats go off to Ash Grove, who not only warned its employees of potential hazards, but chose to keep them home with pay, rather then potentially expose them to asbestos.

Wisconsin Gives Free Asbestos Abatement Information Sessions

The EPA steps in and supervises cleanup in Ambler, Pennsylvania. Ambler was home to several insulation, pipe and brake manufacturers.

SimmonsCooper Supports Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization Conference

West Virginia judges protect railroaders’ rights. Supreme Court holds that a railroad can not hold former employees to a “total and absolute” release, given that asbestos symptoms can take 40 years to manifest.

Dancers in Southern California perform to honor a friend’s sick father. Friends of Isabella Bendix, daughter of Ken Bendix, a mesothelioma victim, raised over $3,000 to donate toward curing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma & Asbestos Round-Up: March 20, 2009

2009-03-20T07:16:00.007-05:00

This week we’ve seen developments in the Libby trial and elsewhere that demonstrate how and why the legal system can be the last safe haven for victims of corporate greed. In the Libby trial, testimony revealed that federal, state and local government agencies were aware of the dangers at the W.R. Grace vermiculite mine as early as 1980. Grace knew of the dangers in the early 70’s or before. While miners and their families were exposed to deadly tremolite, the government did nothing to protect them.

In our update last week we mentioned that Chrysler prevented a family from burying their beloved father and husband. Again, it is an example of large corporations placing their own bottom line over the simple dignity and privacy of a grieving family. Thankfully, a judge in New Jersey held that Chrysler could not delay or disrupt something as sacrosanct as a funeral.

Each of these cases represents how far an unscrupulous business can and will go to pursue its own interests. Some businesses, like some people, will stop at nothing to gain or protect profit.

These stories are also excellent profiles in courage. Neither the citizens of Libby, nor the family in New Jersey were silent victims. They are fighting for what is right, not just for themselves, but for everybody.

National Asbestos News

The Libby Trial
The EPA began investigating Libby as early as 1980. Testimony revealed that the government, though aware of asbestos dangers, did nothing.

James Becker, a financial analyst for W.R. Grace in the '70s, testified that Grace was aware that asbestos dust had settled over a large area of Libby. His division was charged with analyzing the financial benefits of continuing the mining of the lethal tremolite.

Students at the University of Montana are providing up-to-the-minute updates on the Libby trial on a blog. You can view their blog here: http://blog.umt.edu/gracecase.

Shocking Conduct and Justice Served

The ghouls at Chrysler and Honeywell were prevented from stealing the body of a victim of asbestos cancer from his family.

Deadly Libby Mineral Found in Cement Quarry

Helena, Montana -- The Ash Grove Cement Co. has shut down all of its operations after tremolite, the same deadly asbestos mineral in Libby, was found in its limestone quarry. Ash Grove, whose headquarters are in Overland Park, Kansas, has told its employees not to return to work until further notice.

Mesothelioma & Asbestos Round-Up: March 13, 2009

2009-03-13T07:43:00.003-05:00

Unfortunately, there are some sad and disturbing stories hitting the newswire this week.

In one instance, Chrysler literally stopped a funeral in progress to subpoena the funeral director for possession of the body of a recently deceased and beloved grandpa. Serving the funeral director moments before the burial was to occur; Chrysler further punished an innocent family.

Also, the lawyers for indicted W.R. Grace officials fought to keep out the testimony of environmental experts. Claiming they were “surprised” by the evidence that they were poisoning an entire town, they sought to keep damning evidence from citizen jurors.

National Asbestos News

The Libby Trial
Environmental and medical experts testified this week. They testified that asbestos levels in Libby far exceeded EPA regulations. Additionally, a medical expert testified that at least 1,800 citizens in Libby have been diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases.

Defense lawyers for Grace officials sought to have this testimony kept away from the jury.

Finally, a citizen and business owner in Libby, Montana testified how Grace knowingly sold her asbestos-contaminated property. She explained how here greenhoused and plant nursery business resulted in asbestos fibers being lodged in her lungs. She also testified that Grace knew she would be exposed to asbestos.

Asbestos Defendant Chrysler Stops Beloved Grandfather from Being Laid to Rest

In what can only be described as "shocking," Chrysler gives justification for the bad name that Big Business currently suffers from.

Asbestos In Our Lives

"Seussical the Musical" was postponed in Bucks County, Pennsylvania after possible asbestos was discovered in the auditorium where the production was to be seen.

Kyle, South Dakota: Little Wound Middle School was closed after asbestos was found.

Middletown, Delaware: A fundraiser for mesothelioma victims was held last weekend at the Granite Run Mall in Middletown.

Mesothelioma Medical Developments

Sydney, Australia: The Bernie Banton Center opens for asbestos victims. It is dedicated to the worldwide early diagnosis and treatment of mesothelioma victims and sufferers of other asbestos-related illnesses.

Mesothelioma & Asbestos Round-Up: March 6, 2009

2009-03-06T07:03:00.005-06:00

This has been a big week for asbestos victims. The Grace trial in Montana continued as the jury heard expert medical testimony. Additionally, victims were given the opportunity to attend the trial.

As the voices of the victims in Libby, Montana were heard, another voice for asbestos victims went silent. We are sad to report that advocate Nancy Tait died this week.

Finally, some disturbing news from overseas concerns the next waves of asbestos victims and the continued sale of asbestos-containing building materials.

National Asbestos News

The Libby Trial
Leading medical experts testified in the W.R. Grace trial in Libby, Montana. Doctors described the symptoms suffered by asbestos victims. Pulmonologist Dr. Alan Whitehouse describede the horrors of asbestos disease.

A three-judge panel declared that victims in Libby may meet the criteria described in Montana's Crime Victim Bill. These victims were given the right to attend the trial. Previously they were only allowed to testify, but not attend other proceedings.

Lioness of Asbestos Advocacy, Nancy Tait, Gone but Never Forgotten

Nancy Tait, author of Asbestos Kills and founder of the Society for the Prevention of Asbestosis and Industrial Diseases (Spaid), which lobbied for tighter asbestos controls in England, died this week. SimmonsCooper mourns her passing and vows to continue her fight. Read a moving obituary from The Guardian.

Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization celebrates creation of "National Asbestos Week." The conference is scheduled for March 27th-29th.

Future Asbestos Victims Identified

Disturbing statistics from the United Kingdom reveal that carpenters are at severe risk of asbestos exposure and disease. "Baby boom" carpenters, those born in the 1940's, stand a 1 in 17 chance of dying of mesothelioma. This is a staggering statistic when you consider how rare mesothelioma is among the general population.

Additionally, Australian experts report that young people renovating their first homes or entrepreneurs "flipping" old homes are at grave risk of asbestos-related diseases.

Asbestos-containing building materials are readily available for purchase on the black market in the United Arab Emirates.

Asbestos in Our Lives

Utica, New York: Asbestos scare shuts down Utica City Hall.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: Asbestos concerns delay sale of office building.

Yonkers, New York: Asbestos worries close middle school.

Jamestown, New York: Sheet metal workers exposed to asbestos; employer fined $273,000.

Chicago, Illinois: Popular "picnic permit king" dies of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Medical Developments

Eight-year mesothelioma survivor uses freeze therapy, or "cryoablation" to fight her disease.

A new clinical study: Morphotek(r) announces the initiation of MORAb-009 Phase II study in first-line treatment of mesothelioma. Read the press release. Visit Morphotek's home page.

Mesothelioma & Asbestos Round-Up: February 27, 2009

2009-02-27T07:32:00.005-06:00

Over the past week asbestos has continued to disrupt projects, and mesothelioma has continued to claim lives.

In Minnesota, former U.S. congressman Dennis Newinski died of mesothelioma. Ironically, Mr. Newinski was once a political opponent of U.S. Congressman Bruce Vento, who also died of mesothelioma. The story about Congressman Newinski is linked below. For more information about former congressman Bruce Vento and the Hope Builder award named in his honor, go to www.curemeso.org. View Bruce Vento’s profile on the Meso Foundation web site.

Jurors in the federal criminal trial against W.R. Grace heard opening statements from prosecutors and defense. W.R. Grace, who went bankrupt after poisoning hundreds of Libby, Montana residents, as well as people around the world, is defending against criminal charges. We will continue to closely monitor developments in this case.

National Asbestos News

Grace Trial Underway
Jurors were impaneled and opening statements were made in the federal criminal trial against W.R. Grace in Montana. The government is now presenting evidence against W.R. Grace, whose asbestos-laden vermiculite is said to have killed hundreds and sickened even more.

Former Minnesota Congressman, Dennis Newinski, Dies of Mesothelioma
Dennis Newinski, who rose from blue-collar machinist to a congressman in Washington D.C. , died of mesothelioma. Interestingly, in the past, Mr. Newinski ran against former congressman Bruce Vento, who also died of mesothelioma.

Asbestos in Our Lives

Construction in El Dorado Hills, California raises concerns about asbestos. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, is being uncovered as the Serrano community expands.

Asbestos also halted construction of a large sports facility in Glasgow, Scotland.

$1 million is to be spent on cleaning the former Keasbey and Mattison site in Ambler, Pennsylvania

Deputy Sheriff Killed by Mesothelioma
A dedication ceremony was held in Sebastian County, Oklahoma. On Friday, two years after Deputy Sam Neff died of mesothelioma, his daughter Mandi Howe helped hang a plaque honoring her father.

Mesothelioma & Asbestos News Roundup: February 20, 2009

2009-02-20T12:22:00.005-06:00

This is our first edition of the Mesothelioma & Asbestos News Roundup. Our goal is to sift through the various items published about asbestos each week and provide you with what we think are the week’s most newsworthy developments. If you know of anything you think we should post, please let us know!

This week, headlines have been dominated by the W.R. Grace Trial in Montana. It is a rarity that asbestos companies are held criminally liable for their acts, and we'll be watching this closely to see how it develops.

National Asbestos News

This week federal criminal proceedings against retired W.R. Grace officials are set to begin. In what many describe as one of the worst industrial disasters in American history, Grace officials are charged with wire fraud, obstruction of justice, conspiracy, and violations of the Clean Air Act.

Asbestos in Our Lives

At Morrisville Middle School, near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, asbestos was released in the air when an electrician drilled into tiles containing asbestos. Children were sent home to avoid further exposure.

Dr. Pepper plant construction delayed due to asbestos discovery in Victorville, California.

In Niles, Illinois, asbestos stirred controversy when it was discovered and removed from a local fire station.

Mesothelioma Medical Developments

Rosetta Genomics is developing a microRNA-based molecular diagnostic test to differentiate malignant pleural mesothelioma from other cancers.

Is It Really Asbestos? Tracking Down the Truth About Home Asbestos Removal

2009-02-13T08:52:00.004-06:00

Removing asbestos in your home is serious business that should only be handled by a professional asbestos abatement company. Most asbestos abatement companies are reputable, but just like any industry, there are always a few bad apples. Bottom line: not only do we need to be vigilant about protecting ourselves from the dangers of asbestos, we also need to be educated about who we're working with and the appropriate methods for identifying asbestos. We recently came across a story reprinted on the Green Building Elements website that is a cautionary tale about this very subject.

The story, written by Linda Kincaid, highlights the experience of Jim Lee and his interaction with three asbestos abatement companies. When Jim purchased a home, the property inspector noted that panels found in the laundry room might contain asbestos. Concerned for his safety, Jim contacted three separate asbestos remediation companies for estimates that ended up being just over one thousand dollars for the removal of the panels.

So far, this all sounds fine; it is always best to seek a professional asbestos abatement company for any asbestos removal. Improper handling of asbestos material could cause fibers to become airborne -- exposing anyone not properly protected in the area to the airborne fibers. The inhalation of asbestos fibers can lead to asbestosis, a scarring of the lung tissue that causes difficulty in breathing or worse, mesothelioma, a terminal form of lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure.

Jim’s story takes a different turn, though. Jim decided to reach out to an acquaintance who had previously performed environmental testing for him for an opinion. It was this individual who opened Jim’s eyes to the scam he was about to fall for. When this contact requested a copy of the lab reports about the material, Jim informed them that none of the remediation companies had provided him with any reports. In fact, all three companies claimed they could identify asbestos material just by looking at it.

Some asbestos may be identifiable by appearance, but in most cases the final determination that a material is definitively asbestos is made under a microscope. A certified lab will examine a sample and indicate not only what type of asbestos a person is dealing with, but also what percentage of the material is asbestos. Jim took his own sample of the material, strictly following EPA procedures (it is important to note that the EPA does not recommend that untrained persons collect asbestos samples). Jim sent the sample into the lab and, a week later, learned that the material in his laundry room contained no asbestos at all.

Instead of spending over $1000 on the removal of the materials, Jim spent less than $100 on a test to be sure and now he knows his laundry room is safe. What is even more disturbing about this story is that the materials in Jim’s laundry room were in good condition. How is this important? The EPA advises against asbestos remediation when materials are intact and in good condition. Removal of asbestos materials that are in good condition can actually release asbestos fibers into the air that otherwise would have remained sealed in the material. The other option would be to encapsulate the material to ensure that the fibers do not become airborne in the future.

In this story there were three separate asbestos remediation companies and not one of them tested the material in Jim’s home for asbestos content. Not one of them suggested leaving the material in place since it was in good condition. Jim was lucky to have access to an informed acquaintance with whom he could inquire about the situation, but what about the rest of the world who may not have such connections?

One recommendation the article makes is to avoid companies that perform their own testing and abatement. Third-party testing helps lower the chances of being taken advantage of in this type of situation. The best recommendation is to educate yourself on asbestos in the home and understand proper procedures and practices before you contact an abatement company to perform any removal. The EPA website is an excellent resource for environmental and home health issues. And, again, it is important to note that the EPA does not recommend that untrained persons collect asbestos samples. Be safe out there!

Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization Conference Set For Next Month

2009-02-06T09:12:00.004-06:00

March will be here before you know it, and that means it's time for the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization's (ADAO) 5th Annual International Asbestos Awareness Conference. This year's conference will be held in Manhattan Beach, CA., on Saturday, March 28, 2009; activities will continue throughout the weekend.

The conference provides education and outreach to families, employers, employees and scientists. ADAO strives to educate the public about the dangers of asbestos, ban its use and encourage research efforts to improve treatment options. Discussion will include facts on exposure, asbestos-related diseases and how to prevent them, and where to turn for help. This is a good opportunity to connect with others struggling with mesothelioma, as well as learn more about the disease and the fight to prevent it.

Linda Reinstein is the executive director and co-founder of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization. Unfortunately, she knows intimately about asbestos exposure and the devastating affects it has on families; Linda lost her husband, Alan, to asbestos exposure in 2006.

We encourage you to learn more about the event and organization. Cost is $100 for survivors, caregivers, families and students. Cost for physicians and healthcare professionals is $250. Visit ADAO.org for more information.

Lisa Jackson Confirmed by Senate As Head of EPA

2009-02-05T14:20:00.003-06:00

We recently told you about the prospective election of Lisa Jackson to head the Environmental Protection Agency. The Senate has now approved Jackson for the position of administrator. Jackson, who holds a chemical engineering degree from Princeton, is the first African-American to head the EPA. Jackson worked for the EPA for 19 years before becoming commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection in 2006.

After her confirmation, Jackson notified all EPA employees of President Obama’s expectations and goals for the organization, including working to clean up toxic sites throughout the US.

Contamination from the former W.R. Grace mines in Libby, Montana, has left numerous residents of the community with asbestos-related diseases, and their medical options are running out. Senator Baucus, a longtime advocate for helping the people of Libby, is hopeful that Jackson will be able to declare the town a “public health emergency,” which will allow for federal help with the medical needs of its residents.

It is well documented that deaths from mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses are far above normal in the town of Libby. Funds from previous health programs are beginning to grow thin, and the town has reached out to state officials to allocate more for these programs in the new budget. Hopefully the announcement and induction of Lisa Jackson into the EPA will bring new funds and solutions to the people of Libby and hope for a better environment worldwide.

Baucus Hopes New EPA Nominee Will Focus on Mesothelioma in Libby, Montana

2009-02-02T13:29:00.003-06:00

Environmental Protection Agency nominee Lisa Jackson has agreed to focus on the city of Libby, Montana if she is confirmed. The Western News recently highlighted Montana Democratic Senator Max Baucus’ request that Jackson visit Libby to see firsthand what accomplishments have been made and what efforts must be continued.

Senator Baucus, who is a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, has long pledged to help the residents of Libby and is hopeful about working with Jackson if she is confirmed for the EPA position. Jackson also confirmed her intentions of visiting Libby if she receives the post to review previous efforts, meet with residents, and discuss their needs and concerns.

Baucus has called on the EPA in years prior to declare Libby a public health emergency. The EPA, after meeting with The White House Office of Management and Budget, blocked this effort. The EPA did follow through with efforts to remove asbestos insulation from residents’ homes. However, adequate medical care is still not being provided to the many residents who are sick from asbestos exposure.

It was in 2001 that the Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry, along with the EPA, determined that many people in Libby had already died from asbestos exposure and that over 1,000 more people had early signs of asbestos-related diseases.

Senator Baucus and Libby residents are hopeful that Lisa Jackson will receive the EPA position and be able to work through the budgeting and financing restrictions to help residents get the medical support they need.

SimmonsCooper LLC - Where to Find Us Online

2009-01-26T10:28:00.006-06:00

As the Internet continues to weave its way into our daily lives, SimmonsCooper is working to connect with people - patients, families, attorneys, thought leaders and more - in a variety of ways. Our primary goal is to build awareness about the dangers of asbestos and connect families affected by mesothelioma with useful, reliable resources.

Here are a few of the ways you might run into us online:

SimmonsCooper on Twitter
SimmonsCooper Mesothelioma Video Library on YouTube
SimmonsCooper on Facebook
SimmonsCooper on MySpace
SimmonsCooper on Squidoo
SimmonsCooper on LinkedIn
SimmonsCooper on FindLaw
SimmonsCooper on Technorati
SimmonsCooper's Google Profile

Admittedly, we're still trying to figure out the best way to share and learn with others online, but we're getting there. As always, contact us with any questions, comments or ideas you may have.

Mesothelioma Foundation Awards Grant to Research Scientist Haining Yang

2009-01-26T10:17:00.004-06:00

The Cancer Research Center of Hawaii’s Thoracic Oncology Program has reason to celebrate, along with mesothelioma victims and scientists abroad, as one of its scientists, Haining Yang, MD, Ph.D, recently received a grant award from the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF) to continue studies on mesothelioma. Yang was selected among 59 international applicants for the grant.

Yang, who received her medical degree from Shandong Medical University, will use her grant to study the mechanism of how asbestos causes mesothelioma. Her goal is to develop effective prevention and therapeutic interventions for the disease. Dr. Yang has received an additional grant from the Hawaii’s Community Foundation’s Leahi Fund. This grant will help to further support her research and allow the project to expand to include an early-detection study of mesothelioma in targeted villages in Turkey with higher incidence of the disease.

Malignant mesothelioma is a very aggressive cancer that forms in the lining of the body cavities that protect the lungs, heart and stomach. Caused by asbestos exposure, mesothelioma causes close to 3000 deaths in the United States each year. Due to the long latency period of the disease, the illness is often terminal with a short life expectancy after diagnosis, unless diagnosed very early. Hawaii, where Yang is currently located, is very familiar with the mesothelioma diagnosis associated with Pearl Harbor’s naval shipyard workers.

The Meso Foundation, a national organization dedicated to the eradication of mesothelioma, is regarded in the mesothelioma medical science community for its continued independent efforts to fund new research on mesothelioma. The organization is known for funding high-quality and innovative research projects around the world, such as Yang’s, and they continue to connect mesothelioma patients with experts around the globe. The work of the foundation is funded by meso patients and their families, law firms like SimmonsCooper, drug companies, and other companies involved with asbestos, each working toward a common mission of curing this terminal disease.

For more information, visit the Cancer Research Center of Hawaii.

SimmonsCooper Adds New Partners with Extensive Asbestos Litigation Experience

2009-01-26T09:58:00.003-06:00

SimmonsCooper has added seven new partners. You can read more about SimmonsCooper's new partners here, but suffice it to say, we're extremely proud of this announcement and these attorneys' dedication to the fight for patients and families devastated by mesothelioma throughout the nation.

John Simmons, our firm's founding partner, says it best: "Each of the lawyers promoted to partner this year have made outstanding contributions to the firm and have provided invaluable assistance to patients and their loved ones. They truly are among the best in the business and help position SimmonsCooper as a leading law firm in asbestos litigation and as a champion in the ongoing fight against mesothelioma."

The new partners include:

Nicholas Angelides
Brian Cooke
Amy Garrett
Christopher Guinn
Shane Hampton
Robert Phillips
Shelby Reed

Asbestos Cleanup Too Costly For Many

2009-01-23T09:10:00.003-06:00

Maquoketa, Iowa, is a beautiful city located south of Dubuque along the Maquoketa River. The town has long been revered as “picturesque” with its array of historical sites, mysterious caves and unique land formations; quiet residential lifestyle and a downtown district with specialty shops, antique stores and restaurants still offering “old-fashioned” service, but there is one eyesore the town has been dealing with for a year, and it may be years before the town can afford to do anything about it.

One year ago a raging fire destroyed a half-block of Maquoketa’s business district “downtown” area. Although there were no injuries or deaths associated with the blaze, three historic buildings were destroyed. The pile of rubble from the fire remains even a year later. Federal and state officials decided that because the buildings dated before 1800, that asbestos was probably used in their construction. They also believe that the fire and water used to extinguish it likely caused the cancer-causing agent (asbestos) to be spread throughout the site.

Asbestos abatement and cleanup is costly. In this situation, regulations called for highly specialized handling of the materials, something insurance companies wouldn’t pay for. With no private or public money available, the city of Maquoketa has decided to seek federal and state assistance, but it could take many more months to learn if they will receive the funding.

There is no question that proper handling of asbestos cleanup is essential due to mesothelioma, a terminal lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure, and other asbestos-related illnesses. But the cost of proper handling is too much for many cities and many private homeowners. KOAA news in Pueblo County, CO just announced that commissioners spent $6.6 million on cleanup efforts of an asbestos-containing building destroyed by fire in October of 2007. That is a lot of taxpayer dollars. In the end, the county plans to spend $40 million to redevelop the property.

This is money that Maquoketa residents and the town don’t have to spare. State and federal funding for asbestos cleanups is limited and large EPA action,s are usually awarded to huge environmental cleanup sites like you find in Libby and Bozeman Montana. It is easy to feel defeated when faced with proper asbestos removal, especially as a private homeowner who has to pay thousands for it, but it is important to the health and safety of everyone that proper asbestos removal be utilized.

Before you take asbestos removal into your own hands, which can and will be punished by law if caught, take the time to learn about the effects of asbestos exposure and realize the long-term effects it could have not only on you, but also on others who may be accidentally exposed. Visit the Mesothelioma Video Library to hear true accounts from victims of the cancer mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma International Symposium - Save the Date!

2009-01-22T09:30:00.003-06:00

The 2009 International Symposium on Malignant Mesothelioma is set for June 25-27 at the Omni Shoreham Hotel in Washington, DC. This is an annual event hosted by the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation.

To get more details, we encourage you to sign up for the Meso Foundation's newsletter, Breath of Hope. It can be found online by visiting www.curemeso.org.

We look forward to seeing you at this year's symposium!

Asbestos-Disease Research Center Opens in Australia

2009-01-21T12:52:00.003-06:00

Australia’s Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd, officially opened one of the world’s largest research centers dedicated solely to research on asbestos-related disease. The center is located at Sydney’s Concord Hospital and was named after Bernie Banton, a victim of mesothelioma and an avid campaigner on behalf of asbestos-illness victims in Australia.

The Rudd government will contribute $5 million to the new center that was a cooperative development effort between the NSW government and the ANZAC Research Institute at Concord Hospital. The work at the center will be complemented by a culmination of 11 research facilities throughout Australia and in 2010, the program hopes to expand with the addition of the Center for Research Excellence into Asbestos-Related Disease that is planned for development using $2.5 million in federal funds to support world-class research.

By the year 2020, an estimated 13,000 Australians will suffer from malignant mesothelioma, a terminal cancer caused by exposure to airborne asbestos. An additional 40000 cases are estimated for Australians with other asbestos-related illnesses. The predicted numbers are growing every year, and it is important that the Rudd government has recognized and realized the needs and pain of those suffering from asbestos-related diseases.

Bernie Banton died of mesothelioma, but not after fighting long and hard, even in his darkest days, for the rights of the thousands suffering from asbestos-related illnesses. In addition to the center being dedicated to the 2007 Australian of the Year, the Bernie Banton Asbestos Research Fellowship was established under the National Health and Medical Research Center Fellowship Program for researchers. In addition, the new center is focused on promoting prevention and educating Australians, Asians and probably the world about asbestos-related disease.

What Can I Do to Make My Doctor Visits as Productive as Possible?

2009-01-20T12:03:00.005-06:00

If you have the opportunity to visit the SimmonsCooper Mesothelioma Video Library (MVL), you may find it helpful as you prepare for your initial consultation with a mesothelioma expert.

You know you have questions, but knowing how to ask them to get answers is important. Viewing these videos will help you better understand the medical terminology to communicate your concerns to the doctors. Also, knowing the correct pronunciation and description of a procedure will help you understand what the doctor is trying to tell you.

Of course, write down any and all questions and concerns. It might be a good idea to type up your list, so that anyone can read it should you or a family member become unable to do so. And remember to leave space to jot down the answer below each question. It can be confusing to review notes if you cannot associate the answer with the question.

Make arrangements to ensure that your medical records arrive at the doctor’s office, allowing ample time for review. The doctor may decide additional testing is necessary, which may require an overnight stay in the hospital or a few extra days for completion.

You want to be prepared, and this includes your travel and lodging arrangements. When you speak with the doctor’s staff, ask for recommendations. If the specialist is affiliated with a major medical center or university, ask if there are housing accommodations on the campus or discounts with local hotels or motels. Often an information packet is provided by the doctor or medical facility that includes this type of information.

If no such information is available, ask the hotel for any discounts available when staying for medical consultations. Don’t be embarrassed about asking. I know of a number of hotel chains that offer such assistance as well as some airlines. Your focus should be centered on your health and potential treatment. You should not have to have the added worry and stress of travel and lodging.

Sue Vento advises that you should carry a notebook or two when you meet with health care professionals. Many of our clients devise a plan that really proves to be easy for all involved to carry out. One woman explained her method:

"We started out with a small one-inch (1”) size 3-ring binder with colored tabs for each physician or health care facility. At the front of the binder we inserted a clear plastic business card holder where we stored all the doctors, hospitals, Medicare and insurance information. The use of a 3-ring binder provided a hard writing surface for taking notes.

Behind each colored tab we listed all the pertinent information relating to the doctor, including emergency contact numbers, office hours and appointment schedules.

My sister insisted on getting copies of all office-visit notes and medical and lab reports, which she then tabbed in reverse chronological order so that the most recent information was on top. At the end of each tabbed section was plain-ruled paper for her to take notes during each visit, which she then filed with the corresponding date of the visit or procedure.

Soon we learned that the small notebook was not large enough, so we eventually ended up using three colored notebooks. The RED notebook was for medical and radiation oncology, the BLUE notebook was for the hospital and the BLACK notebook was for her primary care doctor and home health care provider. This made it easy to grab the right binder for each scheduled appointment or hospital. The small was easier to carry to and from the appointments.

We had duplicates of all three notebooks. One set was kept in the house and the second “emergency set” was stored in the car. That way we always had all her medical information at our finger tips."

Yes, it does take time to organize the notebooks after each office visit or procedure, but being this organized helps provide better care for the patient.

In this exclusive series we examine the book 100 Questions and Answers About Mesothelioma" by Harvey I. Pass, MD, Laura Roy, RN, and Susan Vento.

Mesothelioma's Alimta Inventor Donates $1 Million To Hamilton College

2009-01-15T14:03:00.004-06:00

Edward C. Taylor, inventor of the anti-cancer drug Alimta has, with his wife Virginia, donated $1 million to establish an endowed fund for chemistry research at Hamilton College.   Alimta has now been on the market for four-and-a-half years. It is approved in 92 countries, including the United States, for both first-line and second-line lung cancer, and is the only drug approved for the treatment of mesothelioma, a rare form of lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Alimta is also in clinical trials for breast, head, neck and thyroid cancer.

The Taylor couple has established The Edward and Virginia Taylor Fund for Student/Faculty Research in Chemistry at Hamilton College. The $1 million fund was established to inspire students interested in chemical research and to facilitate their work. The fund will offer students the chance to pursue research in organic chemistry, biochemistry, physical chemistry and other divisions of chemical research beginning in the summer of 2009.  

In the developmental and research stages of Alimta, Taylor’s Princeton lab did not have the facilities to turn the compound he synthesized into an effective medication. In 1985 a formal partnership between Princeton and Eli Lilly was established with the objective of exploring this new research and development in depth. Hundreds of new compounds were prepared and examined; finally, Taylor came up with a new compound that was extraordinarily promising. After 12 years of extensive efforts by Lilly, this compound became the new cancer drug, Alimta. 

 Beginning in 2009, Taylor’s gift will offer students at Hamilton the opportunity to follow a similar path of discovery and this donation offers the world new hope for future treatments of devastating illnesses.

SimmonsCooper Pro-Bono Efforts Continue as Firm Gives Helping Hand to John Marshall VLSC

2009-01-14T10:24:00.005-06:00

The Veterans Legal Support Center & Clinic (VLSC) at the John Marshall Law School was one of the first clinics established to specifically aid our nation’s veterans. Every year our veterans return home with life-changing injuries and, sadly, many of these veterans will not be able to afford or locate capable legal representation to help them sort out their affairs. This is something John Marshall Law School is attempting to change, and SimmonsCooper is right on board.

SimmonsCooper recently worked with the Madison County Bar Association to provide advocacy training at the VLSC. The effort was spearheaded by SimmonsCooper attorney Karoline Carstens and firm partner Amy Garrett, both focused on helping victims of mesothelioma and asbestos exposure. The training program was attended by nearly 40 attorneys. Presently, over 15 attorneys at the firm are able to assist the VLSC with pro-bono cases.

Pro-bono work is, without a doubt, incredibly important to our attorneys. SimmonsCooper has represented over 100 St.-Louis area veterans and was instrumental in getting $13 million in compensation for workers who had contracted cancer from exposure to thorium while making nuclear weapons in Madison, IL.

Last year the Illinois Bar Association recognized SimmonsCooper with the John C. McAndrews Award. The award is given to members of the profession that show extraordinary commitment to providing free legal services to those who cannot otherwise afford it.

The VLSC is dedicated to serving the men and women who have served our nation, and SimmonsCooper is proud to join the effort to provide our veterans with the experienced legal help they deserve.

SimmonsCooper's Mesothelioma Video Library Making Progress, Connecting with Patients & Families

2009-01-13T12:24:00.004-06:00

Throughout our years helping families affected by mesothelioma, SimmonsCooper has continued to strive to find ways to build awareness about the cancer and offer support and educational resources whenever possible. After all, when a person discovers that they have an asbestos-related illness like mesothelioma, it can be a very trying time. Mesothelioma isn’t a word you hear a lot about growing up and although it is gaining more exposure in recent years, it is still very possible that a person receives a mesothelioma diagnosis never really knowing what exactly they have or what to expect in the future.

Last year SimmonsCooper launched the Mesothelioma Video Library web site not only to build mesothelioma awareness, but also to offer a resource to anyone whose life has been touched by mesothelioma, whether directly or through the life of a loved one. We're pleased to see that the site has been recognized as an excellent educational resource (read more about the recent award SimmonsCooper received).

The Mesothelioma Video Library was developed to help educate every person about mesothelioma. The web site offers over 70 videos that cover mesothelioma topics from diagnosis and treatment to understanding the different types of mesothelioma and their associated symptoms. SimmonsCooper worked with the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, a foundation the law firm has supported for many years, to make certain that the information provided in this video series was accurate, concise and helpful. The most powerful portions of the video collection are from interviews with families and patients who have had their lives changed by mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that is caused by exposure to airborne asbestos, exposure that has been happening for centuries under the negligent eye of many large corporations. SimmonsCooper has worked in asbestos litigation for close to a decade and has developed a very passionate position on building mesothelioma awareness and on funding new research and treatment options. The Mesothelioma Video Library web site is part of the law firm's continuing efforts to help victims of asbestos exposure and to provide support to mesothelioma patients and their families.

We're pleased to announce that more unique video interviews are on the way. Stay tuned. In the meantime, to view the free video series, learn more about mesothelioma and to join in the mesothelioma support forum available on the web site, please visit: www.mesovideolibrary.com

Vermont Asbestos Mines Update

2009-01-12T09:49:00.004-06:00

Last month we told you about the Belvidere Mountain asbestos mines. State officials in Vermont have called a meeting with residents to discuss the issues and concerns generated from recent studies into the areas surrounding a proposed cleanup of the Belvidere Mountain asbestos mine located in Lowell and Eden. The mine operated for close to a century, and areas of waste rock still remain. The Vermont Department of Health conducted research to determine if exposure to asbestos was creating a greater risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses for residents of the area.

Residents’ concerns were raised when officials with the Vermont Department of Health released reports in November that cases of lung cancer, mesothelioma and asbestosis were identified as being higher for residents living close to the mine. The same Department of Health later released a report that its examination of the health records was inaccurate and included data from cities located outside of the targeted research area, but higher risks still remained for residents. The newly raised concerns have some residents questioning their children’s safety, while other residents are outraged by the allegations and are now concerned with decreasing property values due to the publicity the November reports received.

The study performed by the Department of Health was purely statistical and did not take into account other factors that may have caused residents' exposure to asbestos in the area. In fact, the report only identified deaths of former miners of the area. The Vermont Department of Health continues to believe that there is evidence of increased risk to residents and families who worked in the mines or currently visit the mines to do hiking or participate in other activities.

The Department of Health hopes to answer all of the its residents’ questions and hear their concerns during the Monday and Tuesday night meetings being held at the Eden Central School and Lowell Graded School respectively. Most of all, department officials want residents to understand the importance of staying away from the mine area.

Five Will Be Honored At ADAO Conference

2009-01-10T05:21:00.001-06:00

Five honorees will be recognized at this year’s Asbestos Disease Awareness Day Conference for their dedication to changing asbestos-related laws and for their commitment and support to those suffering from asbestos-related illnesses. The ADAO (Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization) will be presenting the awards during their 5th annual conference this March in Manhattan Beach, CA. Linda Reinstein, co-founder and executive director of the ADAO, noted that the organization is honored to recognize these individuals for their commitment to asbestos-related causes.

California Senator Barbara Boxer will receive the Tribute of Hope Award for her dedication to changing asbestos laws. Boxer has been a longtime supporter of banning asbestos in the United States and has worked vigorously on other environmental issues.

The Tribute of Unity Award will be awarded to Margaret Seminario of the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO) for her continued international efforts to educate and support victims of asbestos. Seminario is noted for going before the House of Representatives last year and demanding federal help for victims of exposure to toxins.

India has a very serious asbestos problem as it continues to import asbestos materials from Canada and expose thousands of workers to asbestos fibers every year. Two Indian citizens, Pralhad Malvadkar and Raghunath Manwar, will be recognized at this year’s conference and presented with the Tribute of Inspiration Award for their support and on-going efforts on behalf of asbestos victims of their country.

Also being recognized will be the Head of the Center for Occupational and Environmental Medicine at Mt. Sinai Hospital, Dr. Stephen Levin. Levin will receive the Dr. Irving Selikoff Lifetime Achievement Award for his years of asbestos-related research. Levin is well-noted for research and comprehensive study of the effects of asbestos exposure after the September 11, 2001 World Trade Center attacks. Dr. Irving Selikoff played an instrumental role in the passing of asbestos-usage regulations by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration over twenty-five years ago. Selikoff died in 1992.

Asbestos victims and their families founded the ADAO in 2004, and they have organized a great conference this year filled with expert speakers; asbestos victims and their families; researchers and medical experts; and keynote speaker Jordon Zevon, renowned musician and asbestos victims' advocate who lost his own father to asbestos-related disease. For more information or to register, go to: www.AsbestosDiseaseAwareness.org

Update: St.-Louis Post Office Clear of Asbestos

2009-01-09T08:08:00.005-06:00

Last week we told you about the potential asbestos scare at a St.-Louis post office, but today we have good news. The U.S. Post Office located in St. Louis County, IL that was closed last week due to possible asbestos in the air reopened on Saturday after additional air quality testing proved the air was clear of asbestos. STLToday.com reports that after two additional air quality tests were conducted at the post office on Congressional Drive, it was determined that the office was safe to reopen for workers and the public.

Exposure to asbestos has been known to cause a number of asbestos-related illnesses, which is why County Health Officials requested that the office be closed after asbestos materials were found during a renovation project in the building next door to the post office. Officials determined that a partition would not be enough to seal the renovation project, and the post office was closed for precautionary purposes.

The diseases caused by exposure to airborne asbestos fibers include asbestosis, a scarring of the lung tissue that causes decreased lung capacity, and mesothelioma, a terminal form of cancer. The long latency period of mesothelioma makes it difficult to diagnose and even more difficult to treat once it has reached advanced stages. The actions taken by the post office and county health officials were to protect the community.

It is not uncommon to find asbestos materials in older buildings and homes, as asbestos was used as insulation and other building materials until the 1970s when its use became regulated by the Occupational Health & Safety Department. It is important, if asbestos is discovered in an area that you live or work, that a health inspector is contacted to determine if an asbestos abatement team is required to contain the asbestos fibers.

Long-Term Worries Continue For Residents Near Swift Creek

2009-01-08T10:16:00.002-06:00

Residents living near Swift Creek, an area in Whatcom County, Washington, continue to look for answers from local and federal governments about long-term containment and clean-up efforts of the Swift Creek asbestos site. Gov. Chris Gregoire wants to provide $1 million to help with the short-term goal of restructuring of levees, which still has to meet the approval of the state legislature, and help prevent further flooding, but tells residents the money for long-term efforts just isn’t there.

A massive landslide from the Sumas Mountain occurred decades ago near the headwaters of Swift Creek and has been releasing excess sediment into the creek each year. This slide material contains naturally occurring asbestos. In earlier years (after the first slide occurred) in efforts to prevent flooding, the county would dredge the creek and remove the asbestos-laden sediment. This sediment was used to shore up the creek banks and offered as fill to local residents. In 2005, it was determined by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that the levels of asbestos in the sediment made it a health risk. The dredging ceased, and the sediment was to no longer be used by the community.

This is a great first step in protecting the community, but not only is the old sediment still lining the shores of the creek, the new sediment from the landslide is no longer being dredged, causing flooding of nearby farmlands: floodwaters that contain and leave asbestos fibers in the fields. The Washington Department of Health issued an advisory in September 2008 stating, “asbestos is in the water and the riverbed sediment and may become airborne when people disturb the ground by walking, cycling, or riding horses on the creek banks or dredge piles.” What is not noted in the advisory is the potential danger farmers will face when they till or cultivate a field that was flooded with the asbestos-contaminated water.

Asbestos exposure occurs when asbestos fibers become airborne and are inhaled into the lungs. These fibers can do damage to the lungs and have been linked to many serious and terminal illnesses like asbestosis and mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused by asbestos and asbestosis is the scarring of the lung tissue, which decreases lung capacity. Although cancer rates in the area of Swift Creek seem to be consistent with other parts of Washington, the long latency period of asbestos-related disease can cause this number to change at any time.

Although the EPA has determined that the levels of asbestos in this area are high and dangerous, they have not found affordable long-term solutions. Cost of full repair of the area could be as much as $100 million. Some efforts have been made, and some sediment piles have been capped to prevent further disturbance. If approved, the $1 million from the state will be used to try and prevent another year of flooding. County executives are hopeful that the US Army Corp of Engineers will get involved in the project, while the EPA continues to work with state and federal agencies to develop a safe long-term solution for both flood control and management of the dredged sediment.

Asbestos Concerns Close St.-Louis Post Office

2009-01-05T17:01:00.003-06:00

STLToday.com reported that a United States Post Office located near the Westport Plaza was closed last Friday after a St. Louis County health inspector suspected that asbestos had been released during the renovation of an adjoining office.

According to a spokesperson for the County Department of Health, Craig LeFebvre, workers performing renovations in the building next to the post office located at 2002 Congressional Drive discovered the asbestos materials. The health department was notified, and after determining that a temporary partition would not be enough to seal the area and the inspector requested that the post office be closed.

Postal officials and the building owner are cooperating with the health department to secure the area. Regional manager of customer relations for the postal service, Loretta Tolliver, stated that the postal service has hired a specialist to examine the air quality within their building. Until it is determined that the post office is safe for occupancy, Tolliver urges customers to use the post office located on North New Ballas Road.

Exposure to airborne asbestos fibers can cause many asbestos-related illnesses, like asbestosis and the terminal lung cancer, mesothelioma. Efforts made by the postal service and the St. Louis County Department of Health are in place to help protect residents, postal office employees, workers in the renovation, and customers of the post office from being exposed to these harmful fibers. The Congressional Drive post office will be reopened when the health department and the independent specialist determine that the building is safe for public use.