Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction materials until the 1980s. Despite being banned in many countries, asbestos remains a significant threat to public health, and mesothelioma is still diagnosed in thousands of people every year.
Action Mesothelioma Day is an annual event held on the first Friday of July to raise awareness of mesothelioma and support those affected by the disease. The event is organized by various charities, including Mesothelioma UK, the British Lung Foundation, and the National Asbestos Helpline, and brings together patients, families, healthcare professionals, and campaigners to remember those who have died from mesothelioma and call for action to prevent further cases.
If you are interested in getting involved in Action Mesothelioma Day, there are several ways to do so:
Attend an event: Action Mesothelioma Day events take place across the UK, with activities ranging from remembrance services and candlelit vigils to fundraising walks and educational seminars. You can find a list of events on the Mesothelioma UK website, which also provides information on how to register and get involved.
Donate or fundraise: Charities that support Action Mesothelioma Day rely on donations to fund their activities and provide services to patients and families. You can donate directly to a charity or set up a fundraising page to collect money from your friends and family. Mesothelioma UK provides a range of fundraising ideas and resources, including a fundraising pack and online donation platform.
Share your story: Mesothelioma is a devastating disease that affects not only the patient but also their loved ones. Sharing your experience of mesothelioma can help raise awareness of the disease and highlight the need for better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. You can share your story on social media using the hashtag #ActionMesotheliomaDay or contribute to a charity’s blog or newsletter.
Volunteer: Charities that support Action Mesothelioma Day rely on volunteers to help with their activities, from event planning and coordination to administrative tasks and fundraising. You can contact a charity directly to find out more about volunteering opportunities and how you can get involved.
Lobby for change: Mesothelioma is entirely preventable, and there is a need for stronger regulations to protect workers and the public from exposure to asbestos. You can write to your MP or local council to call for action on asbestos and mesothelioma, sign a petition, or join a campaign group.
In conclusion, Action Mesothelioma Day is an essential event that raises awareness of mesothelioma and supports those affected by the disease. There are many ways to get involved, from attending an event or donating to sharing your story or volunteering. By working together, we can raise awareness of mesothelioma and call for action to prevent further cases and improve the lives of those affected by the disease.
