Agreement Following Mesothelioma Diagnosis Means Man’s Future Care Needs Are Guaranteed

A former joiner from Newcastle diagnosed with asbestos-cancer has spoken of his ‘relief’ after lawyers secured him a settlement in connection with his illness.

William Hedley, aged 71, was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a progressive and life-limiting cancer of the lining of the lung associated with exposure to asbestos, often decades previously.

Following his diagnosis, instructed asbestos-related disease experts at Irwin Mitchell to investigate his illness and help him access specialist treatment and care he requires.

William’s legal team secured has now secured him a six-figure settlement from the insurers of the now defunct Eckford and Fyfe Limited. William worked for the firm as a joiner from 1966 to 1976 and was exposed to asbestos dust in his role. The insurers agreed to judgment been entered against Eckford and Fyfe meaning it’s liable for William’s illness.

Furthermore, the settlement allows for William to claim for the costs of further medical treatment as and when his condition requires it in the future.

Expert Opinion

“Since his diagnosis, William and his family have had to live with the shadow of mesothelioma in their lives and concerns over what the years ahead may hold.

“Nothing can make up for what William is having to go through, but this settlement secures the future for him and his family. It gives them peace of mind and the freedom to focus on their lives by ensuring William’s future medical needs will be met.

“Sadly we continue to see too many cases where mesothelioma has a terrible impact on people’s lives. William’s case serves as a reminder of the terrible legacy asbestos has created and how more still needs to be done to protect people from the risks of this hazardous material when it still remains a part of so many UK buildings.” Helen Jones - Associate Solicitor

William began to feel unwell in early 2021 with a persistent cough and pain in his lower back, which increased as the months went on. Having consulted his GP, William underwent various scans and biopsy, which confirmed the diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma on 4 May, 2021.

While William continues to have treatment and is discussing his options with doctors, he continues to experience breathlessness and chest pain, which makes it difficult to sleep and a loss of appetite, which has seen him lose weight over the last 12 months.

William, who is married with 4 children said: “The last year has proved incredibly difficult for me and my family. The stress and upset has been bad enough but we’ve also had to content with the fear of what the future may bring.

“I’m still exploring my treatment options, so I’m delighted with the settlement. It can’t give me a cure, but I can access the care I need now and later down the line. It’s a huge relief and a weight off my mind to know that whatever is coming down the road, my family and I have some security. It’s one less thing to worry about.

“Mesothelioma is a terrible disease and I hope my story will highlight the dangers of asbestos and at the same time, tell others that there is hope even in the wake of a cancer diagnosis.”

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