Fifty-Six-Year-Old Underwent Lung Transplant After Being Exposed To Hazardous Chemicals At Work

A Kettering dad-of-three who underwent a lung transplant after being diagnosed with a rare condition has revealed his determination to live life to the full.

Robert Druce worked for a manufacturing company that specialised in making luxury yachts using wood and fibreglass.

After 20 years in the job, Robert was diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis - an immune system disorder where the lungs become inflamed by an allergic reaction to inhaled materials.

Dad instructs workplace illness lawyers to investigate

Following his diagnosis, Robert, 57, instructed expert workplace illness lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate whether his job could have been to blame for his condition.

The legal team went on to secure Robert a settlement sum of £343,000 from his former employer after it was found he had been exposed to isocyanates.  These are a family of highly reactive chemicals found in the likes of foams, coatings, paint, glues and flooring listed as hazardous substances by the Health and Safety Executive.

He became dependant on oxygen tanks and was given 12 to 18 months to live if he didn’t have a lung transplant.  He underwent the surgery in July 2022.

Since then, Robert’s condition has improved drastically.  He’s also been involved in the Transplant Games.

Alex Shorey is the expert workplace-illness lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Robert and his family.

Expert Opinion

“It’s been an incredibly difficult time for Robert, coming to terms with his diagnosis and subsequent lung transplant.

“However, it’s inspiring to see that his diagnosis hasn’t stopped him from living his life and helping others in the process through his involvement in the Transplant Games.

“While nothing can ever change what Robert’s been through, we’re pleased to have agreed a settlement which we hope will provide the family with some closure and the answers they were looking for. It also ensures a degree of security for the future by helping fund any future treatment and rehabilitation for Robert.

“Hypersensitivity pneumonitis is a serious condition that can get worse over time and prove fatal in some cases. I therefore hope that Robert’s story is also a stark warning to employers to ensure the health and safety of their workers.” Alex Shorey

Hypersensitivity pneumonia: Robert Druce's story

Despite his transplant, Robert still needs to be mindful of where he goes.

He can’t go anywhere with air conditioning as it might aggravate his illness.  He also can’t go near swimming pools due to the chlorine.

He’s determined, however, not to let his condition define him.  While he has limitations on how active he can be, he tries to reach 10,000 steps a day through walking.  He’s also now able to do his own shopping and some cleaning.

In July 2023, one year after his surgery, Robert took part in the Transplant Games in Coventry.  He played darts and participated in a five-kilometre walk, cheered on by his family.

Throughout his ordeal, Robert has been supported by his sisters, Clare and Jane, and his three children, Megan, 27, Jack, 17, and Nicole, 14.

Robert speaks out on condition which left him immobile

He said: “My life completely changed when I was diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis.  It wasn’t something I’d even heard of, let alone knew anything about.

“I went downhill fairly quickly.  Within a few months, I was virtually immobile and painfully short of breath.  It was a huge shock to be told I had just 12 to 18 months left to live if I didn’t have a lung transplant, but it made the decision to have surgery an easier one.

“It came as another blow when I found out that years of being exposed to chemicals at work were likely to have made me ill.  It’s hard to imagine coming into contact with something so hazardous on a regular basis.

“Physically there is no way I can consider working anymore, and that’s something that I still struggle to accept.  I’m therefore grateful that the settlement means I don’t have to worry about the future and any further care I need will be covered.

“The amazing support I’ve had from family and friends has helped me get back to living as full a life as I can.  I’m not as active as I used to be, but I’m determined to enjoy every day as I’m very lucky to still be here.

“I just hope that by sharing my story, I can raise awareness around my condition and the causes and urge employers to take all measures necessary to keep their staff safe.”

Find out more about our expertise in supporting people affected by workplace illness at our dedicated section on the website. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.