Everyone wants more people to be aware that all deaths caused by asbestos-related disease are entirely avoidable. Asbestos exposure, which is the almost-singular cause of the disease, could have been avoided through stricter and more thoughtful regulation of the asbestos industry, as well as more ethical and moral corporate leadership by a variety of companies, large and small.
Mesothelioma Awareness Day, which was founded in 2004 by Meso Foundation volunteers, has been recognized as the driving force behind the movement to bring more attention and funding to this deadly cancer. Over the last 12 years, the Meso Foundation and its ardent volunteers have obtained proclamations of "National Mesothelioma Awareness Day" from the United States Senate and House of Representatives. They successfully raised nearly a million dollars, resulting in state and local government proclamations, as well as numerous instances of media coverage for their stories and activities.
The overarching goals are to raise funds to fund medical studies, cancer treatments, clinical trials, and to eliminate asbestos as a serious threat to human health. Every year, asbestos-related diseases claim the lives of over a hundred thousand workers worldwide. Every year, it is estimated that 2,500 to 3,000 people in the United States die from an asbestos-related disease.
Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization, or ADAO, is one of the most well-known organizations dedicated to raising awareness about Mesothelioma Awareness Day. Dough Larkin and Linda Reinstein founded the organization in April 2004. The ADAO educates citizens about the dangers of asbestos exposure. The Asbestos Awareness Organization (ADAO) has been hosting its annual Asbestos Awareness Conference, where specialists and patients with mesothelioma gather to discuss novel treatment options. The conference honors those who have died from the disease while also attempting to educate the public about the dangers of asbestos.
Many families get together to create everlasting traditions for holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions. Similarly, members of the mesothelioma community and foundation have banded together to create their own traditions. Since Congress officially legalized Mesothelioma Awareness Day on September 26, 2010, everyone affected by mesothelioma has been invited to join together on this special day to educate others about this rare and, without a doubt, preventable cancer. Here are some things you can do to show your community support during this special event.
Putting on a Fundraiser
Organizing a fundraising event, for sure, allows you to reach out to others in your community who are affected by asbestos cancer. You can always hold an office yard sale, an awareness party, or a 5K walk or run to raise funds to help people and the government improve research and treatment. If event planning isn't your thing, consider donating to one of the top charities, a treatment facility, or a support group.
Making Contact with Your Local Media
This is yet another way to show your support for Mesothelioma Awareness Day and to educate your local community about the importance of mesothelioma research, education, and advocacy. You can request that your local media run a story about Mesothelioma Awareness Day or cover your fundraising event. The greater the number of people who are educated about asbestos-related cancer or mesothelioma, the greater the impact and difference we can all make. You can also contact your federal and local representatives. Some Medical Outreaches have created a video on how to contact your elected officials, as well as some discussion points.
On the Today Show with the Meso Foundation
The first Mesothelioma Awareness Day was organized in 2004 by volunteers for the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating the cancer. One of the Meso Foundations' various Mesothelioma Awareness Day traditions is to invite patients with mesothelioma and their loved ones to a gathering at New York's 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
It is truly iconic for large groups of people to gather in front of the plaza to wave signs and cheer as the morning television show is filmed. Of course, joining the Meso Foundation on September 26th is a great way to demonstrate the power of numbers and raise awareness of mesothelioma among a national audience.
Participating in Virtual March
Visiting New York City may not be feasible for everyone. You can, however, show your support for the Mesothelioma Center Virtual March without even going there. Simply sign into Facebook and visit any Facebook pages associated with the event. They will provide you with a virtual march image to share with your family and friends.
Face-to-Face With Asbestos
You can also share a photo of yourself or a loved one on the internet, particularly on Facebook pages dedicated to Mesothelioma Awareness Day. These pages frequently include a special photo album titled Fighting Asbestos Face to Face. This is dedicated to everyone affected by asbestos-related cancer. By sharing on these walls, families can come together to support, encourage, and remember their loved ones.
Telling Your Story
Without a doubt, learning insights from survivors' experiences can have a significant impact on newly diagnosed patients. You can compile survivor stories relevant to patients and caregivers that have inspired many people to help connect everyone in the community. You can share your story with Facebook pages or websites dedicated to Mesothelioma Awareness Day, and they will undoubtedly feature it on their Wall of Hope.
Wearing Your Advocacy
You can also show your support by wearing one of the free awareness wristbands. This is not only a way to support a loved one who has been diagnosed with cancer, but it can also help prevent the disease by raising awareness about the dangers of asbestos. People frequently question specifics about what your wristband represents. When they do, you must be prepared to spread a little knowledge.