Specialist Lawyers Back Mesothelioma Sufferer’s Calls For Increased Awareness Of ‘Terrible’ Disease

A former painter and decorator who saw his father die from mesothelioma and has now been diagnosed with the terminal cancer himself is backing Action Mesothelioma Day (3 July) – an annual event which seeks to raise awareness of the disease.

The event is held on the first Friday of July and sees victim support groups, clinicians, charities and researchers come together to raise awareness of the disease, which is caused by asbestos exposure decades before symptoms begin to appear.

Leslie Fenning, 65 from Doncaster, was diagnosed with the disease in September 2014 after suffering with chest pains and shortness of breath. He instructed expert asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate how and where he was exposed to the deadly dust and fibres.

The law firm has now secured an admission of liability from the insurers of his former employers E&L Fenning & Co Ltd which paves the way for Leslie to receive a settlement which will help provide some security for his family and help cover the costs of therapy and treatments he needs.

The retired painter and decorator worked with his father, who died from mesothelioma, at E&L Fenning & Co Ltd as a painter and decorator between 1966 and 1976, before beginning his own decorating company in 1977.

During his time at E&L Fenning & Co Ltd he recalls being exposed to asbestos when the company was contracted by Doncaster Council, West Lindsay Council and Selby Council in the 60s and 70s.

He is now supporting Action Mesothelioma Day to raise awareness of the disease that has impacted his life so heavily.

Martyn Hayward, an expert asbestos-related disease lawyer, who represents Leslie, said: “This is an absolutely tragic case and illustrates just how much damage asbestos exposure can cause. Both Leslie and his father were exposed to the material and developed mesothelioma as a result.

“All too often we see cases involving tradesmen who were exposed to asbestos for long periods of time, simply by going to work every day. This is why Action Mesothelioma Day is so important, as awareness needs to be raised of this terminal disease, which can be avoided if workers are protected from the dangers of asbestos.”

Leslie said: “Mesothelioma is an absolutely terrible disease and I saw the amount of pain and suffering my father went through when he died. I never expected the disease to affect our family again, but I have now been diagnosed and I’m extremely concerned about what the future holds for me.

“Action Mesothelioma Day is a chance to raise awareness of the consequences asbestos exposure can have and help signpost people to the help and support that is around for victims and their families.”