Posted on March 21, 2016
We have been touched by asbestos in individual ways, yet we are joined together by a bond of community. As a testament to the strength of our global family, the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) is highlighting the courageous stories of our members with the “Share Your Story” feature on our website.
This week, we would like to honor the story of Clarence, as shared by his son Bracy and his daughter-in-law Mary, who are a part of our ADAO family.
We encourage you to submit your personal stories by clicking here and following the simple instructions on the page. In sharing, comes healing. Remember, you are not alone.
“In the Beginning He Had So Much Hope” – Clarence’s Story
Name: Clarence
Location: Texas, US
Date of Birth: AUG-1912
Diagnosis: Mesothelioma
Date of Diagnosis: FEB-1970
Date of Death: JUN-1970
Treatment: Had lung removed
How has asbestos changed your life? (As shared by his son Bracy and daughter-in-law Mary, unedited)
It completely changed the lives of our entire family. I went to work so Bracy could get out of asbestos. We ended up moving to the country to get away from the refineries. I am very proud to see that the importance of his battle has been recognized by awarding Clarence the Keep Me in Your Heart Award. I hope through this, people will be able to see what a wonderful man he was and not just another victim of this horrible disease. In the beginning the thought of winning and being able to buy a new house and the different things he would be able to do for each of his children is what gave Clarence strength to pursue his groundbreaking asbestos case. Unfortunately as his condition worsened, he realized he would not make it to trial. He wanted to know the trial would continue after his death since he was concerned about the welfare of his wife. In the beginning he had so much hope and worked so hard to get better. When he saw no improvement after his surgery he began to realize that he wasn’t going to make it. Within three and a half months he was dead. Through all his suffering he never lost his faith in God. He was a very kind and gentle man. He was the very best Father and Grandfather anyone could ask for. Because of his example I have a wonderful Husband and Father for my children.
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