Mesothelioma Resources for Patients & Families

Mesothelioma is an asbestos caused cancer of the serous membranes that surround many of the body’s vital organs. These membranes, known as mesothelium, secrete a lubricating fluid that provide an easy movement of the organs within the body. The most common form of the disease is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the membranes that surround the lungs. The next most common form of the disease is peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdomen. Other forms of the disease do exist, but they are rare occurrences.

Many patients and families pursue legal action against companies that used asbestos after understanding the extreme negligence exercised by these corporations. While an attorney cannot reverse the harm caused, assistance can help to alliviate the burdens of medical bills and financial hardship.

While there is currently no known cure for malignant mesothelioma, treatments are available with the most common being surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. There are also numerous non-traditional mesothelioma treatment options for consideration. Your doctor will recommend one treatment or a combination of therapies that are best for your situation and overall prognosis. The course of treatment will depend on a number of factors including the location of the disease, the stage of the disease, your age and your overall health.

Charlene Kaforey is a woman from New York diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma in July of 2007. She is currently undergoing immunotherapy under the guidance of a cancer center in the Bahamas and is responding very well to the treatment. We are proud to be able to tell Charlene’s story and believe her fight against mesothelioma is an inspiration to everyone diagnosed with the disease.