Mesothelioma Support Groups and Counseling

Mesothelioma Resources

Mesothelioma Support Groups Can Make a Difference

Cancer and mesothelioma support programs exist in a variety of formats. Some groups are formal and focus on learning about cancer or dealing with feelings. Others are informal and social. Some groups are composed only of people with cancer while others include family members or friends. Some are led by professionals, although most are self–help groups led by patients. Whatever the format, a support group can help you deal with the fears and problems posed by a severe cancer such as mesothelioma.

Finding a Mesothelioma Support Group

Doctors, nurses, or hospital social workers often will have information about local cancer support groups, including location, size, type, and how often they meet. Many newspapers carry a special health supplement containing information about where to find such groups.

A medical center that treats mesothelioma often has support groups specifically aimed at this type of cancer. You may also find groups through your union or occupational group.

The organizations listed below are a source for cancer support groups. Should you have any questions about mesothelioma and your legal rights, please fill out a short form and we will contact you.

Alliance for Lung Cancer

Lists online and face–to–face support groups nationwide for lung cancer patients. These groups may also be suitable for mesothelioma patients.

American Cancer Society

Check with a local chapter for information about cancer support in your area.

Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO)

Provides online support groups for patients with asbestos-related diseases, their families, and caregivers. It was founded by friends and relatives of asbestos victims.

CancerCare

A national non–profit organization providing free professional help to people with all cancers through counseling and referral.

Cancer Patient’s Workbook

A practical guide created to aid cancer patients and their families organize the medical and personal details that arise from the everyday reality of cancer.

Cancer Survivors Network

An online support group for cancer patients that is sponsored by the American Cancer Society.

Gilda’s Club

A nonprofit organization that provides support and networking groups, lectures, workshops and social events for cancer patients. It has affiliates nationwide.

Lean on Me: Cancer Through a Carer’s Eyes

A web site devoted to mesothelioma victims and their families, which promotes an inspiring book written by Lorraine Kember. This book is a true story describing her husband’s vigorous struggle with the agony of mesothelioma lung cancer and her heart felt journey as she coped with the harsh reality of death.

National Cancer Institute

Call 800–4–CANCER (800–422–6237) and ask for the Cancer Information Specialist who will have resources about support groups in various locations.

Today’s Caregiver Magazine

A magazine featuring caregiver support groups, inspirational news articles and several other resources.

Wellness Community

Offers drop–in and ongoing support groups and networking groups for specific types of cancer.

Mesothelioma Costs and Finances

As a mesothelioma patient, you will confront medical costs and related financial demands in addition to the emotional and physical problems of having a serious disease. Diagnosing and treating mesothelioma is expensive. Each medical insurance plan is somewhat different, and your plan may cover some, but not all of your health needs.

One consideration that helps address these financial issues is whether to pursue legal remedies available in the civil court system against companies that made or supplied the asbestos products that caused your mesothelioma. In many instances, companies can be held liable for the injuries of the workers they exposed to asbestos. We work daily in seeking to hold these companies accountable.

Please feel free to contact us at Brayton Purcell for more details. As experienced asbestos attorneys, we can offer understanding, support, and excellent representation of your case.