Sad news out of Kalamazoo, Michigan: Mlive.com reports that four-term Kalamazoo County commissioner, 69-year-old Grady Biby, recently passed away from mesothelioma. Last July, Mr. Biby announced to his fellow commissioners that he’d be leaving to battle the mesothelioma, but he was never able to return to work.

According to the article, Biby attributed his mesothelioma to the years he was aboard Navy submarines — the submarines probably exposed him to asbestos, which is the overwhelming cause of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer also called “asbestos cancer.” It attacks the lining of various body organs, and though there are treatments for it, there is no cure. Mesothelioma symptoms can take years or even decades to appear in a person, which is why it’s common for people to not realize their job in the construction industry or ship building industry — two of several industries that worked with asbestos — is the reason for their illness.

Families of people who worked in industries affected by asbestos could also be at risk. Workers who unknowingly tracked home asbestos fibers on their clothing and shoes had no idea they’d be putting their loved ones in danger.

Medical bills can pile up for a mesothelioma victim, and the pain and suffering are tremendous. If someone suffered or is suffering from mesothelioma because of asbestos exposure or another person’s or company’s neglect, it’s important to seek the help of a qualified mesothelioma lawyer.

A good mesothelioma lawyer will be experienced in handling similar cases and settlements. And while a common belief is that a lawyer is too expensive to hire, it’s important to remember that mesothelioma lawyers typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning any money they receive must come from the mesothelioma settlement, or the verdict obtained in the case.

If you have questions, don’t hesitate to call 1-888-370-0121 to speak with a resource person.

You don’t typically hear about mesothelioma without hearing something about asbestos or asbestos exposure. The reason for that is because mesothelioma is overwhelmingly caused by asbestos exposure. A rare form of cancer often called “asbestos cancer,” mesothelioma does not have a cure. Once diagnosed, victims usually do not have much time left. Medical bills can pile up, and families can be left devastated.

Mesothelioma affects the pleura membrane surrounding the lungs or the lining of the abdomen, attacking the lining of the lungs, heart and abdomen. People who worked at jobs where they were exposed to asbestos likely had no idea of the danger they were in at the time. Some industries affected include the construction and ship building industries. Additionally, the family members of workers may have been put at risk for mesothelioma. Workers exposed to asbestos could have tracked the fibers into their homes with their shoes and clothing.

Three seriously medical conditions associated with asbestos include: asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Many mesothelioma victims fail to realize that their former occupation explains their illness because it can take years or even decades after asbestos exposure for the condition to manifest. Victims must fight for their rights. If you or a loved one have mesothelioma, contact an attorney to find out what steps to take next. A good mesothelioma attorney will fight for the compensation you deserve.

To speak with someone further about mesothelioma, call 1-888-370-0121.