There are some things that you have no control over. Wait a minute… there are lots of things. While I’ve never experienced a life threatening disease, I’ve witness loved ones fight and triumph, but I’ve also witness death. In all moments of struggle fear can take away your resolve, your will to live, but hope gives you strength and peace.
So while you can’t control a lot of things, you CAN decide how you navigate those trials.
Heather Von James is a perfect example of someone who is filled with hope and she wants to share it with others suffering from Mesothelioma. This is her story:
A new mother, and just 36-years-old, Heather was diagnosed with this life-threatening cancer with the doctors giving her only 15 months to live. When she was a girl, she liked to wear her dad’s work coat around. Little did they know, it was covered in cancer-causing asbestos from his construction job.
But Heather beat the odds. Her strength came from family, friends, and most of all, her new baby girl Lily. Of course there were times of fear and pain, but she didn’t give in.
The most terrifying thing for Heather was getting her lung removed.
To face the fears and help her cope, her family would gather together around a fire, write their fears on plates, and smash them over the fire.
They named the day of the surgery, Lung Leavin’ Day and it stuck! After nine years, the day grows bigger every year and now the family uses it as a fundraiser for mesothelioma awareness. To date, over $7,000 has been raised! Join the celebration or spread the word by sharing this post!
What Causes Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure. This cancer is dangerous because the prognosis is dire and latency between exposure and diagnosis is between 20 and 40 years. Veterans, construction workers, and people who live in buildings older than the 1970’s are at a higher risk of getting it.
You might have asbestos in your home and not even know it. Some of the products that may contain asbestos are:
- Attic insulation
- Roof shingles and tar
- Drywall and drywall glue
- Floor tiles
- Popcorn ceilings
- Joint compounds
- Wrapping on pipes and electrical wires
It is important to remember to wear protective gear when attempting to do any home improvement projects and keep children away from these products.
While Mesothelioma does not get much attention by news publications, more and more people will be diagnosed. Many countries do not even regulate the use of asbestos.
That’s why Heather needs help spreading the word about this deadly cancer and bring hope to others who have it. For more information, please visit www.Mesothelioma.com/
thank you for the article – the more education around the awareness of asbestos the safer home owners will be.