WOMEN - THE CHANGING FACE OF ASBESTOS
Sadly, the number of women diagnosed with mesothelioma, a terminal cancer caused by asbestos, is increasing.
Most people assume asbestos disease only affects men who worked as construction workers, shipbuilders, welders, electricians, and carpenters. But mesothelioma is also responsible for cutting women’s lives short.
Tragically, Novum Law client Shirley Churcher died from mesothelioma. Her daughter, Wendy Ware, spoke to us about what happened and how our specialist asbestos team successfully secured compensation for Shirley and her family before her death.
How was your mum exposed to asbestos?
My mum’s stepfather worked at a dockyard for many decades and then as a fitter in public buildings. When he came home from work, mum would shake out his overalls before washing them. We now know mum was inhaling toxic asbestos dust from his work clothes for several years.
How did you feel when your mum was diagnosed with mesothelioma?
I was devastated when my mum was diagnosed with mesothelioma not least because my grandfather had died of an asbestos disease and I just couldn’t believe she would have to go through the same pain and distress.
What made you contact Novum Law for help?
I read a leaflet written by Novum Law describing its specialist asbestos team’s success in making compensation claims for women diagnosed with mesothelioma. It explained how Novum Law had a strong track record helping women exposed to asbestos second hand by washing loved one’s work clothes. I gave the leaflet to mum and she felt it would be a good idea to call and just see what came of it; she had absolutely nothing to lose.
How would you describe Novum Law’s support?
I think the single most important thing for my mum and us as a family was Novum Law’s approach.
You made mum feel her case was important and that she was in safe hands. Novum Law’s down to earth, professional and courteous manner, the regular communication and reassurance provided, took all the worry out of the compensation process. We knew we could trust Novum Law to do all the hard work to get us justice.
What was the outcome Novum Law achieved?
Novum Law made a successful claim against the Government. Money isn’t everything but for the first time, my mum felt she didn’t have to worry about finances. More importantly, Novum Law helped to highlight how women can contract mesothelioma even though they have not been in direct contact with asbestos.
Would you recommend Novum Law to others?
Yes. Novum Law gave mum so much reassurance, helping her feel supported and safe. Mum was amazed with the outcome and how easy Novum Law made it for her to make a compensation claim. Based in Cardiff, Novum Law’s expert team of specialist asbestos disease lawyers can help if you or a family member has been affected by exposure to asbestos on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis. Call Phillip Gower on: 02920 972 070 or email pgower@novumlaw.com.