Widow’s fight for justice over killer lung disease
THE WIDOW of a pensioner who died of mesothelioma is appealing for help to get justice for her late husband.
Marlene Tod, 68, lost husband George last year just four months after he was diagnosed with the debilitating disease, caused by exposure to toxic asbestos fibres.
Originally from the South Side, grandfather of four George worked in construction and helped to build Yorkhill Hospital between 1969 and 1972. when he w as employed by firm James Scott Limited Engineering & Electrical Contractors.
This is where George thought he was exposed to the deadly fibres and his family are now hoping to pursue legal action against insurers following his death.
They are looking for anyone who worked with George at the former children’s hospital site to get in touch as they may be able to help the family in their fight for justice.
Hardworking and creative, 70-year-old George continued to work as an electrician until two months before his death in February 2016.
Marlene said she noticed her husband of 45 years had started losing weight, and after forcing him to step on the scales, was shocked to discover he weighed just seven stone.
She explained: “It was only because I noticed that he had lost a lot of weight and insisted he visit the GP that he became aware that he had terminal mesothelioma.
“I had to watch him deteriorate. He was in a lot of pain at the end, and I had to give him morphine which just knocked him out.
“It was horrible to watch him suffer like that, I really wouldn’t wish it for anyone.”
He managed to enjoy a final family Christmas in December 2015, in the last two months of his life, his independence and his ability to do the things he l oved rapidly declined.
His wife said, “George felt angry, as he knew he could not win against this illness.
“He is sorely missed by myself, our daughters and grandchildren. We made a great team, and now, one half of the team has been taken prematurely.”
A talented musician, George played guitar from a young age, as well as recorded music.
He also created a whole village of model trains for his daughters when they were younger, which have been left behind for his grandchildren to use.
Marlene said: “His music is missed at family parties, and the grandchildren miss their granddad drawing them pictures, teaching them music and running his model railway for them.
“We want to get justice for George but also for future generations, to make sure nobody has to suffer this way.”
“I hope that by raising awareness of mesothelioma, other families’ loved ones may be diagnosed earlier, giving them more time to live life to the full before symptoms take hold.”
Do you remember working with George Tod during the construction of Yorkhill Hospital?
If you, please contact the Tod family’s legal representative Joe McClusky at Thompsons Solicitors on 0141 211 8840 .