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Hawai‘i Mesothelioma Researcher Makes Exciting New Discoveries

Posted on July 12, 2012August 24, 2023 by joe

As an attorney who represents clients with mesothelioma, I have been privileged to visit the research laboratories at the University of Hawai‘i Cancer Center on several occasions. I have met with the incredible staff and gifted researchers who are doing groundbreaking work to further our understanding of mesothelioma, an aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure. I am always impressed by these world-class researchers and by the students at the Cancer Center.

Haining Yang, Ph.D.

One such scientist is Dr. Haining Yang, Ph.D. I recently read about some exciting new discoveries by Dr. Yang and about the research she was doing. Dr. Yang is someone we should continue to follow closely as her important work may someday translate into cutting-edge treatments for mesothelioma victims. We are very fortunate to have Dr. Yang on the team of talented researchers and staff at the University of Hawai‘i Cancer Center.

Haining Yang is an assistant professor at the University of Hawai‘i Cancer. Her work focuses on treatment and early detection strategies for asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma. Dr. Yang received her Ph.D., at Shandong University in China. Among other things, Dr. Yang’s work focuses on early detection of mesothelioma using biomarkers, and she is exploring the effects of new chemotherapy drugs.

Dr. Yang Helps Lead The Charge Against Mesothelioma

Dr. Yang has made some very exciting discoveries that may translate into better detection and treatment methods for mesothelioma patients around the world. For example, Dr. Yang discovered that TNF-alpha, a protein produced by the body during the inflammatory response which can be induced by asbestos, leads to a mediated survival mechanism that helps to protect damaged mesothelial cells from dying. This then enables these damaged cells to divide and transform into what eventually becomes mesothelioma.

Dr. Yang more recently discovered the importance of HMGB1, an inflammatory mediator, in the growth and survival of a mesothelioma tumor. When exposed to asbestos, mesothelial cells release HMGB1, which initiates the inflammatory process that is related to mesothelioma development. It has been discovered that after the healthy cells are transformed, they are still “addicted” to the HMGB1, which is now believed to aid in the growth and development of a mesothelioma tumor.

New Discoveries May Bring New Approaches For Treatment

Mesothelioma is a very aggressive type of cancer. Every year, thousands of people are affected by this disease. Understanding why the cancer develops helps us to find new approaches for early detection, treatment and prevention of this deadly cancer.

Dr. Yang’s research brings us closer to understanding the cancer’s behavior, and what nurtures its growth and survival. Traditionally, the aim has been to kill and remove deadly mesothelioma cells and tumors, but finding ways to prevent the cancer’s growth and survival may prove to be a very effective approach.

Many of the clients I have represented over the years have undergone surgery and chemotherapy treatments at some of the finest medical facilities in the country (“Outstanding Mesothelioma Treatment Facilities For Patients to Evaluate” article). Unfortunately, surgical procedures are invasive and require a lot of strength, time and energy to recover from. Chemotherapy drugs also have side effects that can leave patients feeling tired or ill, and can kill healthy as well as unhealthy cells and tissue. Finding new, less-invasive ways of treating cancer would be a giant step in improving the quality of life for mesothelioma patients around the world, and I am proud that the University of Hawai‘i continues to be such an important hub for mesothelioma research.

For more information on asbestos and mesothelioma, including information on the latest treatment options, visit our Mesothelioma Knowledge Center.

Prevalence of Asbestos & Asbestos Disease in US Pacific Islands

Posted on July 2, 2012August 24, 2023 by joe

It is well known that for decades asbestos was used worldwide in an overwhelming number of construction and industrial applications, as well as in many consumer products. Unfortunately, exposure to asbestos can cause debilitating lung diseases, including mesothelioma, an aggressive cancer of the lungs for which there is presently no cure. Accordingly many organizations have studied where and how asbestos was previously used in an effort to estimate the prevalence of asbestos related diseases.

Asbestos Use and Exposure in US Pacific Islands

I recently read in the International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health, the World Health Organization (WHO) investigated the past use and potential asbestos exposure in the US Pacific Islands which consists of American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Guam, the Republic of Marshall Islands, and the Republic of Palau. The WHO’s Regional Framework for Action for Occupational Health 2011-2015 calls for a collaborative effort in the US Pacific Islands to effectively eliminate the threat of asbestos in today’s society. Understanding where and how asbestos exposures have occurred is key to this effort.

The data search focused on the environmental presence of asbestos, where potential exposures occur, and related diseases. Although the data is limited, it is clear that the potential for asbestos exposure in the US Pacific Islands is significantly higher than previously thought for a number of reasons.

Asbestos Use at Shipbuilding Facilities

One of the primary sources of asbestos exposure stems from the fact that shipbuilding facilities were located on some of these islands. As we know from our own experience in the United States, prior to the mid 1970’s, asbestos was heavily used in the maintenance and repair of ships. The islands of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands served as active military ports during World War II. Guam maintained active shipbuilding facilities even after World War II. Both military and civilian workers at these sites were likely exposed to asbestos.

Data Underestimates Asbestos Disease

Professionals involved with the study concluded that the existing data probably underestimates the actual prevalence of asbestos diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. This under reporting is a result of substantial gaps in the information regarding asbestos exposure, consumption and disease in the US Pacific Islands. However, there is sufficient evidence that confirms asbestos is and has been present on these islands for decades. If this gap in asbestos related data continues, it will hinder the efforts to regulate and reduce the health effects of asbestos.

Asbestos Exposure Cause of Mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure is the cause of mesothelioma, a rare cancer caused by the inhalation asbestos fibers. Asbestos insulation was heavily used in the construction, repair and maintenance of US Navy vessels. Many asbestos-containing materials were also used in the construction of military and civilian buildings in the 20th century, as asbestos was an excellent fire proofing and insulating material. As these buildings begin to deteriorate, need repair or are destroyed, the risk of asbestos exposure still remains prevalent in today’s society, including in the US Pacific Islands.

Mesothelioma victims typically do not begin to show symptoms of the disease until 10 to 40 years after the initial exposure. This latency period in the disease may be hindering countries such as Asia, India and the US Pacific Island in keeping accurate records of asbestos related disease and exposure. Most people diagnosed with mesothelioma are typically in their 50’s or 60’s and only start to show symptoms in the later stages of the disease. Sadly, there is currently no cure for this devastating disease. For this reason prevention and awareness of asbestos is imperative in these countries.

Asbestos Awareness & Prevention

The Galiher Law Firm has been representing victims of mesothelioma for over 30 years. I have been a strong advocate of the awareness and prevention of this deadly disease. One of the keys to someday eliminating this terrible disease is prevention of asbestos exposure. My law firm and I commend the World Health Organization for all of its efforts to raise awareness to prevent and eliminate asbestos from many countries.

Nuclear Submarine USS Miami Catches Fire

Posted on July 2, 2012August 24, 2023 by joe

There are many nuclear- powered Los Angeles class submarines home ported in my own backyard at Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard –the USS Bremerton SSN 698, the USS Jacksonville SSN 699, the USS Chicago SSN 721, and a number of others. So I read with interest a report from Portsmouth Naval Shipyard located in Kittery, Miane, regarding a fire on board one of these submarines.

The Los Angeles-class of nuclear-powered fast attack submarines forms the backbone of the United States submarine fleet. There are presently 42 on active duty making this class the most numerous nuclear-powered submarine class in the world. A fire on one of these nuclear submarines is a serious matter.

Fire Caused By Vacuum Cleaner

800px-USS_Miami_SSN-755 — USS Miami SSN-755

On May 23, 2012 the USS Miami SSN 755 caught fire. The cause of the fire looks to be a vacuum cleaner on board. The submarine was in the process of a 20 month overhaul at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. The vacuum cleaner was being used by shipyard workers to clean up at the end of each work day. Investigators are still unsure what caused the vacuum to catch fire. The fire caused damage to the torpedo room, the crew’s quarters, and command control. Luckily the nuclear propulsion plant had already been shut down for the overhaul.

Early estimates put the cost of the damage in the range of $400 million. The Navy has said they intend to repair this Los Angeles Class Sub instead of starting from scratch on a new boat. If the Navy goes forward with the repairs on the USS Miami, it will remain in the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard until completed.

Nuclear Submarines and Asbestos

Although the nuclear submarines built today are asbestos free, significant amounts of asbestos insulating products were used on submarines from World War II up until the 1980’s, including nuclear submarines. As a result, thousands of submariners and shipyard workers were exposed to this deadly carcinogen. While at sea, asbestos insulation, as well as asbestos gaskets and packing, would often be disturbed during on-board repairs and maintenance. This would release millions of tiny asbestos fibers into the small confined spaces of the submarines. Unfortunately, submariners aboard were exposed to the dangers of asbestos while they ate, slept, relaxed, and worked.

Likewise shipyard workers who constructed, repaired, and maintained submarines were exposed to asbestos products as they carried out their work. Shipyard workers and submariners who worked on and served aboard U.S. Navy submarines are at risk of developing Mesothelioma and other serious asbestos related diseases.

For more information on asbestos exposure and shipyard workers and Navy veterans, please visit our webpage on asbestos exposure at jobsites.

Our Experience

Through our 33 years of practicing mesothelioma law, we have had the honor to represent hundreds of shipyard workers and U.S. Navy crewmen including those who served and worked aboard submarines. Sadly, due to the very confined spaces of these boats the crews and shipyard workers had no choice but to inhale the deadly asbestos dust. The companies who sold these asbestos products were well aware of its deadly potential and yet they continued to sell it without warning to its users.

For over 30 years the Galiher Law Firm has been representing asbestos victims to ensure they receive compensation from these companies. If you or a loved one worked or served aboard a U.S. Navy submarine, it is important to inform your doctor so your physician can monitor you closely for signs of asbestos-related disease. If you have an asbestos-related injury as result of your service, please call us so we can help you and your family.

Multimedia Presentations Change Patients’ Attitudes Toward Clinical Trials

Posted on July 2, 2012August 24, 2023 by joe

I recently read about a new study conducted by researchers at the Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. This study, published in the Journal of Oncology, focused on changing patients’ attitudes towards clinical trials which are studies conducted with patients to test the safety and effectiveness of new drugs and innovative treatments. The study revealed that cancer patients’ perceptions and attitudes regarding clinical trials tend to be negative. The study’s lead author, Paul B. Jacobsen, Ph.D., one of the senior members at Moffitt, noted

“Clinical trials are critical to the development of more effective cancer treatments, however, clinical trials are hampered by low rates of patient participation.”

Changing Attitudes about Clinical Trials

The study was conducted to find ways to change this negative mind-set and to increase the willingness of patients to participate in various clinical trials. Researchers decided to try using a multimedia approach which involved many different forms of audio and visual materials to change patients’ behavior towards participation in clinical trials. The researchers discovered that this new multimedia approach had a greater effect on changing patients’ attitudes than the standard literature about clinical trials which is typically provided.

The study took 472 cancer patients who had never been asked to participate in clinical trials before and divided them into 2 groups. One group was exposed to a multimedia presentation of materials regarding clinical trials. The other group was provided existing pamphlets, brochures, and paper work describing clinical trials. The study revealed the group who had received the multimedia presentation showed an increased willingness and enthusiasm about participating in clinical trials compared to the group that was simply provided with the standard printed materials.

Although this study only reached a small group of cancer patients, the new multimedia approach has the potential to have a tremendous impact on cancer patients’ perception of clinical trials in the future. I have seen firsthand the benefits that can come from clinical trials research and am happy to see that researchers are finding ways to better educate patients’ about clinical trials so they seriously consider participating.

Clinical Trials Are Critical to Finding a Cure

I cannot stress enough the importance of clinical trials in someday finding a cure for many kinds of cancer, including mesothelioma. Many of these studies have led to new treatments and drugs that have increased life expectancy and quality of life for many cancer and mesothelioma patients.

For example, the chemotherapy drugs Cisplatin and Gemcitabine were tested in collaboration with one another in a clinical trial. The results of this clinical trial showed that their effectiveness in treating patients with mesothelioma was much greater when they were used together. This new treatment is now available to mesothelioma patients as a viable treatment for their cancer.

There are hundreds of clinical trials beginning every day, but with low patient participation the true effects of these groundbreaking therapies, treatments and drugs may never be fully determined. The results of this study demonstrate effective ways to increase the number of patients willing to participate in such clinical trials.

My Clients and Clinical Trials

I strongly urge all of my clients to talk to their doctors and medical professionals about participating in clinical trials. This is a very important decision, but also an individual one that needs to be made by patients in consultation with their treating doctors.

The results of clinical trials help to improve the outlook for all of those suffering from devastating diseases like mesothelioma. I am proud of all of my clients who have participated in clinical trials. I strongly recommend if you or a loved one is suffering from mesothelioma that you discuss your options for participation in clinical trials with your doctors.

For more information on clinical trials please visit our webpage on clinical trials.

New Diagnostic Technique – a Potential “Game Changer”

Posted on May 15, 2012August 24, 2023 by joe

I recently read of a new innovative technique that may eventually help doctors diagnose cancer and mesothelioma earlier than what is now possible. This new technique called photoacustic tomography was discovered by researchers at the Washington University in St. Louis. Photoacustic tomography is a new imaging method which relies on light and sound to create detailed color pictures of tumors and cancerous tissue inside the body. Not only will this new procedure aid in the early diagnosis of cancer, but it will also assist doctors in monitoring the effects of cancer treatment without X-rays, MRIs or CT Scans.

Studies of this diagnostic procedure conducted on animals have shown promising results that photoacustic tomography can easily penetrate the body and give good visuals of tumors deep inside the body that could not be seen before. Clinical trials for this new technique are in the planning stages but researchers are very excited about its potential.

Dr. Lihong V. Wang, biomedical engineer and leader of the team of researchers at Washington University said that, “This technology is potentially a game changer, both in how we monitor cancer and in how soon we know it’s there.”

Diagnosing Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma can be very difficult to diagnose. Unfortunately, this lethal disease shows no early symptoms and it can sometimes take doctors weeks to determine a mesothelioma diagnosis. In addition, because it is a rare disease doctors do not initially consider this diagnosis. However, early diagnosis is the key to treatment of this disease. The earlier mesothelioma is diagnosed, the more treatment options that are available to the patient. Photoacustic tomography shows great ability in aiding in the early detection of cancer and mesothelioma. This new technology can see deep inside the body where doctors and tests may not be able to detect cancerous growth.

One Day a Cure for Mesothelioma

My law firm and I have been representing clients with mesothelioma for over 30 years. I have seen firsthand the devastating effects of this disease. Researchers such as those at Washington University provide us and our clients with great hope. Early diagnosis of this disease is a key element to one day finding a cure for this devastating disease.

Mediastinoscopy: International Mesothelioma Program (IMP) Pre-Op Test

Posted on April 18, 2012August 24, 2023 by joe

Patients at the International Mesothelioma Program (IMP) at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts who have a confirmed diagnosis of malignant pleural mesothelioma routinely undergo a series of tests to determine the type of surgery they need. One of these tests is called a “cervical mediastinoscopy,” which is used to biopsy the patient’s lymph nodes. This test helps assess how far the cancer has spread. This information, in conjunction with other test results, is used to help determine if the patient is a candidate for either a pleurectomy or an extrapleural pneumonectomy.

Cervical Mediastinoscopy Used to Biopsy Lymph Nodes

The International Mesothelioma Program is one of the leading treatment centers for malignant pleural mesothelioma. According to Dr. David Sugarbaker, who is Chief of Thoracic Surgery at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital and the founder and Director of the International Mesothelioma Program, the IMP consulted with over 300 malignant pleural mesothelioma patients last year and performed over 160 surgeries. As part of the screening process for surgical candidates, a cervical mediastinoscopy is performed at the hospital to determine if the cancer has spread to the mediastinal lymph nodes.

A cervical mediastinoscopy is a hospital procedure performed under general anesthesia used to biopsy lymph nodes in patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma. The surgeon makes an incision in the patient’s neck at the top of the sternum. The mediastinoscope, which is a thin tube with a light and surgical instruments, is then placed through the incision where tissue samples are taken from the mediastinal lymph nodes. The patient’s biopsied tissue is analyzed by a pathologist to determine if the malignant mesothelioma has spread to the mediastinal lymph nodes. The IMP’s surgical team, led by Dr. Sugarbaker, uses this information to determine whether the patient is a surgical candidate and if so, the type of surgery that will be performed.

Published Research on Importance of Cervical Mediastinoscopy

In 1999, Dr. Sugarbaker and his colleagues published an article entitled, “Resection Margins, Extrapleural Nodal Status, and Cell Type Determine Postoperative Long-Term Survival In Trimodality Therapy of Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: Results in 183 Patients” in the Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery. Dr. Sugarbaker described the importance of mediastinoscopy as a staging tool for patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma. A similar conclusion concerning the importance of cervical mediastinoscopy was reached by British physicians in a published article entitled, “The Case for Routine Cervical Mediastinoscopy Prior to Radical Surgery for Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma” in the European Journal of Cardio-Thoracic Surgery in 2004.

Recent Research Developments May Lead to New Treatments for Cancer and Mesothelioma

Posted on March 9, 2012August 24, 2023 by joe

Science advances daily as researchers learn more about how cancer develops and how normal cells turn into tumors. With this knowledge, scientists and physicians develop new treatment plans that may eventually lead to a cure for cancer. A recent finding by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute and University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine has shed light on a key aspect of tumor growth.

These researchers recently discovered a protein that may be the key molecule in controlling the balance between tumor growth and suppression. Scientists have discovered that the Kruppel-Like factor 4 (KLF4) is one of the molecules known to play a role in transforming mature cells back into stem cells. This molecule has been shown to promote tumor growth in some cases and suppress tumors in other cases. Learning more about the role of molecules such as the KLF4 may lead to new cancer drugs and treatments for many cancers including mesothelioma.

New Cancer Discoveries and Clinical Trials

Clinical trails are borne from discoveries such as this. Clinical trials offer the best hope for someday discovering a cure for devastating diseases such as mesothelioma. These trials offer new treatments and medications that would otherwise not be available to patients. Clinical Trials can help increase a patient’s quality of life and longevity. The results from clinical trials often help to determine the future for cancer and mesothelioma treatments. There are hundreds of clinical trials taking place every day. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, I urge you to discuss clinical trials with you primary care physician. Based on your diagnosis they can recommend a clinical trial that may be right for you.

Closer to a Cure

Through my 30 years of representing clients with mesothelioma, I have been continually amazed at the advancements made each and every day in the field of mesothelioma and cancer research. Each new discovery brings doctors and researchers closer to finding a cure for devastating diseases like mesothelioma. I look forward to the day I can finally tell my present and past clients that a cure for mesothelioma has been discovered.

“The House” at the International Mesothelioma Program (IMP)

Posted on February 10, 2012August 24, 2023 by joe

The housing options offered to mesothelioma patients is one of the most helpful avenues of support provided by the International Mesothelioma Program (IMP) at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.

Being diagnosed with mesothelioma is overwhelming enough, but worrying about where to seek treatment and where to stay while undergoing treatment only add to the stress these patients face. Treatments can last weeks sometimes months and hotel bills can get very costly. The IMP has made it a part of its mission to provide a solution to this problem for its patients.

“The House”

Across the street from Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts is a triple decker house located at 48 Francis Street. Mesothelioma patients and their families commonly refer to it as “The House.” The House which is owned by the hospital opened its doors in 2008. The families of mesothelioma patients who are undergoing treatment can stay at the House for a small per night donation.

The House has three floors. The second and third floors can accommodate up to three families; the first floor up to two families. The families share a comfortable living room, fully equipped kitchen, and back deck area. Each family has their own fully furnished private bedroom. Having the shared living spaces provides families with an area where they can congregate at the end of the day to share stories, talk or just silently support one another.

One of my clients who received his mesothelioma treatment at the IMP stayed at the House for three weeks during his surgery, treatment, and recovery. He and his wife described the House as “their home away from home.” They found the House to be very comfortable and convenient. My client’s wife especially appreciated being able to get together with the other wives at the end of a long day.

I had the pleasure of visiting the House a number of times. I was very impressed. The House is a beautiful home for patients and their families who have to travel from far away for treatment.

Support System for Families and Patients

While staying at the House, families and patients have a chance to connect with others who are going through the same experiences and emotions. Families and patients provide one another with support, encouragement, hope and comfort.

Families have the opportunity to gather at the end of the day, eat meals together, share stories or just relax. My client and his wife became very close with the families with whom they shared the House.

Mesothelioma is a unique cancer and treatment can be strenuous. Being surrounded by people who can relate to their experiences provides a special kind of support that patients and their families cannot find elsewhere.

The team members of the IMP are also a part of the support offered at the House. Doctors, nurses, chaplains, social workers, and counselors are always available to cross Francis Street and tend to the needs of their patients and loved ones.

Not Just a House

The House at the IMP is not simply a house but it is a home, shelter and haven for mesothelioma patients and their families. The House provides care, support and respite for patients and their caregivers.

For reservations, contact social worker Charlene Haouiliya at (617) 732-5500, ext. 32819.

International Mesothelioma Program (IMP) Patient Matching Program

Posted on February 2, 2012August 24, 2023 by joe

Over the 30 years that I have represented mesothelioma clients, I have seen many advancements in the field of mesothelioma. The treatment and care of today’s patients is much more focused on the whole patient not just the disease. The International Mesothelioma Program (IMP) at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston is one of the outstanding facilities that is in the forefront in its approach to treating the entire patient both physically and mentally. The IMP provides comforting support for patients in many different ways, from offering social workers’ guidance to organizing support groups to developing its “Patient Matching” program.

“Patient Matching” Program at the International Mesothelioma Program

The “Patient Matching” Program connects current patients at the IMP with mesothelioma patients who are about to undergo similar treatment and experiences. The program was designed to offer perspective and hope to patients who recently received a devastating diagnosis of mesothelioma. Receiving such a diagnosis can leave a person with many frightening questions. The “Patient Matching” program at the IMP is created to comfort patients through hearing information directly from someone who has been in their shoes.

I have seen the benefits of patient matching firsthand through the eyes of two of my clients who were connected through this program. One client was just finishing his treatment at the IMP and my other client had just received the debilitating diagnosis of mesothelioma and was at the IMP for his first treatment. They found a kinship and bond in sharing their stories and advice about their diseases. My client who was recently diagnosed was reassured by his new found friend’s encouragement and explanations of the treatment he received at the IMP.

Dr. David Sugarbaker, Founder, Director and Chief of Thoracic Surgery of the International Mesothelioma Program, understands the devastating emotional effects this disease has on patients and their families. Dr. Sugarbaker, explains ” Mesothelioma takes an emotional toll on patients and their families that cannot be underestimated; it can be nearly as significant as the disease itself.” The IMP has developed many programs including the “Patient Matching Program” to help deal with these emotional issues.

I firmly believe that a positive outlook and support can help one fight a devastating disease such as mesothelioma. A healthy mental state is just as important as a strong physical state. I have seen many of clients thrive due to emotional support they have received during their treatment. The Patient Matching Program at the IMP provides patients with great encouragement and much needed support. The IMP goes above and beyond to ensure every aspect of the mesothelioma patient is tended to.

Support for the Mesothelioma Caregiver at the International Mesothelioma Program (IMP

Posted on January 20, 2012August 24, 2023 by joe

Mesothelioma is a very serious and aggressive disease which is why patients must focus on their treatment as their top priority. However, it is also important to remember that once treatment at the hospital has ended, it will be family or friends that will become the primary caregiver for the patient. These caregivers need to be armed with the right tools to not only care for the patient but to care for themselves. At the International Mesothelioma Program (IMP) at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, they have developed many programs over the years to aid in support for caregivers. Dr. Sugarbaker, Director of the IMP, and his team know that once the mesothelioma patient is discharged from the hospital, the caregiver is on call 24 hours a day 7 days a week to make sure their loved ones’ needs are taken care of.

IMP Support Groups

The IMP has created Support Groups to help patients’ families and caregivers. The meetings give families and caregivers a chance to share their stories with others who are dealing with the same issues. Many often feel that their own circle of friends and family does not understand what they are going through. The Support Group meetings at the IMP allow caregivers to connect with others who are facing similar challenges.

One of my client’s whose husband was treated at the IMP for his mesothelioma attended these Support Groups. She found them extremely helpful and it gave her time to reflect and discuss the events of the week. She enjoyed and needed the camaraderie and compassion she received from the Support Group meetings.

Recommendations for the Mesothelioma Caregiver

Caregivers are encouraged to ask questions of the medical team and social workers. It is suggested that they bring a journal to doctor’s appointment and meetings with medical staff and take notes of important information and any prescriptions or medical advice. The process of mesothelioma treatment can often feel like a whirlwind. Keeping a journal will enable caregivers to recall later what was discussed at meetings and appointments.

Family and caregiver Support Groups at the IMP are valuable and inspiring for patients and caregivers. However, keep in mind when talking to other families that each patient is different in their type of mesothelioma, how they are being treated and how they are reacting to treatment. While one treatment may be right for one patient, it may not be right for another.

The IMP provides wonderful support for the mesothelioma patient as well as their family and caregiver. The IMP takes great care to not only treat the disease but to treat the whole mesothelioma patient physically and mentally.

Throughout the many decades I have been representing clients with mesothelioma, I have observed the many aspects to this devastating disease and how it effect each person involved differently. I commend the IMP for the support they provide to mesothelioma patients, their families and caregivers.