Personal injury advice from
Thompsons Solicitors
Asbestos Cancer Mesothelioma also affects Younger Victims
8th November 2006
Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a deadly form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. It is known to be responsible for around 1,800 deaths per year, with most victims having come into contact with asbestos through their working conditions.
In some cases however people are exposed to asbestos second hand, often through contact with the work clothing of a family member. Generally these cases would involve a spouse or child. However a third generation of people could now become victims - the grandchildren of people who worked with asbestos.
Landmark Mesothelioma Claim
Our lawyers acted on behalf of Michelle Campbell, a mesothelioma victim whose grandfather worked around asbestos insulation materials at Portsmouth Dockyard for the MoD. She is only 45 years old and was exposed to asbestos when her grandfather visited her as a child on his way home from work each day. She would sit on his lap and wear his work cap, whilst he still had dirt and dust from work on his clothing.
She began to suffer from shortness of breath in December 2005 and after an x-ray, CT scan and biopsy was diagnosed with mesothelioma in January 2006. Although Michelle has undergone chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, the cancer has spread to her ribs and breast bone and treatment was stopped in May as it was not having a sufficient effect.
Michelle is married to Paul Campbell and has three children and two stepchildren. She and her family are devastated by her illness, which leaves their future very uncertain. A compensation claim was made against the Ministry of Defence and Mrs Campbell has received damages of over £140,000 in respect of the pain and suffering she has endured. Sadly, no amount of compensation can make up for the fact that her life will be cut short due to the negligence of her grandfather’s employers.
Industrial Disease Claims
Tony Hood, Michelle’s solicitor, commented: “Michelle’s case illustrates the tragedy of asbestos – and yet again the negligence of employers – that has now extended further and is causing the deaths of a third generation of innocent people. This legacy from the past shows no signs of abating; in contrast, it looks certain that more innocent young victims like Michelle will be affected in the future.”
Our personal injury lawyers have extensive experience in recovering compensation for the victims of Asbestos related diseases, including mesothelioma. If you or a member of your family have been affected, contact The Legal Line for sympathetic advice and assistance on 0800 0328511. Alternatively, you can complete a compensation claim enquiry form online.
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