"My husband died October 2, 2000 from mesothelioma, a dreadful cancer in the lining of the lungs. He had worked 40 years in Boilermaker trades in Michigan. He began work from Local #169 in 1947. Asbestos was widely used in construction work. None of the workers even knew of the dangers associated with it for many years. It was not until the late 1970's and early 1980's that these dangers began to be publicized.

"My husband retired at 62 and except for the anxiety of knowing that he was a candidate for cancer, he enjoyed his retirement. In 1996 mesothelioma was detected in a routine chest x-ray. Fluids were present in the pleural area. We were told later that this is a classic symptom of mesothelioma. Anxiety, losing strength gradually, and a lot of coughing were a part of everyday life by then. He had pain from time to time, but over the counter drugs controlled the pain for three years. The last year the pain was excruciating and uncontrollable. This is a part of the disease. He was on very strong pain medication by then. Small tumors were very painful and he had three series of radiation treatments to shrink them to alleviate the pain. We learned that nothing will stop or even slow this cancer once it begins.

"We went to attorney Michael Serling because of his extensive experience in asbestos law suits. He obtained many settlements from a number of companies that manufactured asbestos products. We were able to build our dream home in Florida and the money has given me a sense of security, but nothing can compensate for my husband's death. Mr. Serling recognized this. He and his law firm worked very hard to represent us fairly. I am very grateful to him and his office. My husband was 74 when he died and certainly not an 'old' man."

A Very Sad Wife

Click Here for Another Testimonial - A Father's Story