NFL star, actor and sports broadcaster Merlin Olsen died of mesothelioma at the age of 69 last week in Duarte, California. A rare form of cancer, mesothelioma is overwhelmingly caused by asbestos exposure — in fact, it’s often called “asbestos cancer.” When a patient is diagnosed with mesothelioma, they typically don’t have much time left. And there is currently no cure for it. Since asbestos was commonly used in various industries like construction and shipbuilding, many workers may have been unknowingly exposed to the dangerous material for years. It can take decades after asbestos exposure for mesothelioma to manifest.

Olsen was diagnosed with mesothelioma last year and underwent three courses of chemotherapy. He filed a lawsuit against several corporations, including NBC Universal and 20th Century Fox, last December for negligently exposing him to asbestos.

Merlin Olsen played 15 seasons for the Los Angeles Rams, only missing two games ever. In 1962, he was named the NFL’s Rookie of the Year. After retiring from the NFL, Olsen went on to be a sports broadcaster on NBC and eventually CBS. As an actor, he appeared on Little House on the Prairie and Father Murphy.

Olsen is survived by three of his brothers, five sisters, his wife, three children and four grandchildren.

About Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma attacks the pleura membrane that surrounds the lungs, heart and lining of the abdomen. Asbestos is very dangerous when it’s disturbed, as the tiny asbestos fibers become airborne and can be inhaled into the lungs where the body is unable to break the mineral down. There is treatment available, but there is no cure. Victims must deal with pain, suffering and expensive medical bills.

If you or a loved one have mesothelioma as a result of someone else’s negligence, speak with a qualified, experienced mesothelioma attorney to find out the next steps to take. You may be entitled to compensation for your pain, suffering and medical costs. To speak to a resource person, please call 1-888-370-0121.

Hollywood columnist Army Archerd died of mesothelioma this week.  Archerd was a legendary reporter who is remembered fondly for his work at Daily Variety, where he wrote about Hollywood stars for over 50 years. Archerd collapsed on Monday and passed away on Tuesday. He was 87 years old.

Army Archerd was diagnosed with mesothelioma five years ago. In a Chicago Tribune news story, Archerd’s wife noted that doctors who diagnosed him with mesothelioma ascribed it to his asbestos exposure while working in a shipyard when he was in the Navy during World War II.

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that currently has no cure. Mesothelioma attacks the lining of various organs and areas of the body, causing victims tremendous pain and suffering. It’s also called asbestos cancer due to asbestos exposure being a cause of mesothelioma. The first signs of mesothelioma can take between 10 and 50 years to show up after a person has been exposed to asbestos. There is treatment available, but, again, there is no cure.

People who worked in the construction, ship building and general industries can be at risk for mesothelioma, as these industries were affected by asbestos exposure. Asbestos was a commonly-used material in construction in the 1900s up until 1978, used in roofing materials, siding, pipes, boilers and even automobile brakes. What’s more is that workers who endured years of asbestos exposure also put their families at risk — asbestos fibers could have been tracked into their homes by shoes and clothing.

Asbestos exposure and mesothelioma are nothing short of serious. Army Archerd is one of many, many people affected by mesothelioma, and he will no doubt be missed. Archerd’s passing brings up the importance of mesothelioma victim’s rights and knowing what should be done if you or a loved one has mesothelioma. To speak with someone to find out more information, call 1-888-370-0121.