Leicester Man Reveals Impact Terminal Asbestos Cancer Has Had On Once Active Life

A retired plumber’s mate diagnosed with an asbestos-related cancer has revealed the impact the terminal disease has had on his life.

Michael Ross, from Birstall, Leicester, has been diagnosed with mesothelioma – a cancer of the lining of the lung most commonly associated with exposure to asbestos, often decades earlier.

Michael and lawyers appeal for information following mesothelioma diagnosis

Following his diagnosis, the 84-year-old instructed specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate how he came into contact with the hazardous material.

Michael and his legal team are now asking his former colleagues at Leicester-based William Freer Limited to come forward with information they may have about working conditions. Michael worked for the firm between 1960 and 1964. 

Rebecca Wood is the specialist asbestos-related disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Michael.

Expert Opinion

“Mesothelioma is a devastating illness. Michael’s case is a stark reminder of the terrible legacy asbestos has left behind and how the impact is often only known many years after exposure.

“While nothing can make up for his diagnosis, we’re determined to provide Michael with the answers he deserves.

“We’d be grateful if anyone who remembers working with Michael could come forward and share any information they have.” Rebecca Wood

Mesothelioma: Leicester man Michael Ross' story

Michael began working for William Freer Limited, a plumbing and heating engineering firm based in Leicester. 

He was employed as a plumber’s mate, assisting qualified plumbers and heating engineers on commercial and industrial jobs across Leicestershire and beyond.

He recalled regularly working in boiler houses which he said would be confined, dusty spaces with poor ventilation. Michael said he would be in close contact with lagged pipes and boilers. The insulation on the pipework and boilers was often damaged, and Michael frequently swept up dust and debris.

Michael was married to Valerie for 62 years until her death aged 84. The couple had two sons, Stephen and Richard, aged 61 and 59, three grandchildren, and a great-grandson.

Michael began experiencing symptoms including breathlessness and a persistent cough in August 2024. Following tests, he was diagnosed with mesothelioma in October 2024. 

He began immunotherapy treatment – which helps the immune system recognise and attack cancer cells more effectively - in January 2025 and continues to attend hospital regularly.

Michael reveals impact asbestos cancer has had and asks ex-workmates for help

Michael said: “I’ve always been active. Me and Valerie enjoyed music and singing and as part of our holidaying we began singing as part of the entertainment at campsites in France where we were staying. Over time we built up a reputation and were invited back for our music and singing at campsites and in hotels. We also had six-month contracts in hotels on Jersey. 

“I also enjoyed tennis, badminton, cycling, regularly riding 25 miles a day, and crown green bowls. But now, everything has changed.

“I get breathless easily and can’t do the things I used to enjoy. While I’m determined to take part in treatment and spend as much time as I can with my family, I’m facing an uncertain future. 

“Before my diagnosis I’d not heard of mesothelioma, but I now know how bad it is. The least I feel I deserve is answers as to where I was exposed to asbestos.”

How you can help

Anyone with information about the conditions Michael would have faced while working at William Freer Limited in the 1960s is asked to contact Rebecca Wood at Irwin Mitchell on 0114 294 7920 or email rebecca.wood@irwinmitchell.com

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting people and families affected by mesothelioma and others asbestos-related diseases at our dedicated asbestos claims section. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.