Husband And Legal Experts Seek Information On ABT Plastic Designs After Mesothelioma Diagnosis

A former Ipswich printing firm worker is appealing for help in establishing how he was exposed to the asbestos set to claim his life. 

Chris Debnam has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, a terminal form of cancer, usually of the lining of the lung, linked to asbestos.

Chris asks lawyers to investigate asbestos exposure

Following his diagnosis, Chris, of Sproughton, Ipswich, instructed expert asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate his illness and whether it could be linked to his career. 

The 68-year-old has now joined with his legal team in asking his former workmates to come forward with information about the conditions he faced. 

Appeal for information on ABT Plastic Designs

They are particularly keen to hear from those with information about Ipswich-based ABT Plastic Designs. Chris, a dad-of-two and grandad-of-one, joined the firm as a 16-year-old school leaver in 1972. He worked for the company for 31 years until it went into liquidation. 

Natalia Rushworth-White is the expert asbestos-related disease lawyer at Irwin Mitchell representing Chris.

Expert Opinion

“This is another case which highlights the devastating impact of asbestos with Chris’ illness developing years after his exposure to the hazardous material is believed to have occurred.

“His diagnosis came as a huge shock to him and his family, who are struggling to come to terms with what the future might hold.

“Understandably, Chris has a number of concerns about his asbestos exposure. While nothing can make up for his diagnosis we’re determined to provide him and his family with the answers they deserve regarding his illness and help support him explore treatment options.

“Therefore, if anyone with information could come forward it could provide vital in our investigations.” Natalia Rushworth-White

Mesothelioma: Chris Debnam's story

Chris joined ABT Plastic Designs after leaving Tower Ramparts School. His role involved printing designs onto paper, glass and plastic using ink and stencils. He was known as a racker at first and his job was to take the prints off the machine. 

He worked his way up and became proficient using the machines including guillotine and dye cutters. The firm was based on an old air field before moving to Sandy Hill Lane. 

Chris, who is married to Karen 67, said while based at the site on Sandy Hill Lane he would be sent onto the pitched roof to check for damage and carry out repairs. The roof was made from corrugated sheeting, which he believed may have contained asbestos. 

Chris would press bolts through the sheeting to fix them into place during which dust would be released. 

After leaving ABT, Chris, who has children Laura, 37, and Matthew 35, spent time in the screen printing trade, before moving into motorcycle maintenance.   

In April 2024, Chris was on a river cruise in Germany, when Karen noticed that he was wheezy. They assumed it was a cold. However, by June Chris was unable to walk upstairs. 

Following tests, he was diagnosed with mesothelioma in September. Chris has a chest drain fitted to remove fluid from his lungs and has started undergoing chemotherapy. 

Chris reveals impact of mesothelioma diagnosis as he appeals for information

Chris said: “These last few months have been the most difficult of my life. While we were concerned that my health seemed to be getting worse, nothing prepared us for the news I had cancer. 

“The mesothelioma diagnosis came as a complete surprise. I went from being an outgoing and active person to one more reliant on others.  It’s been hard for me and my family to accept, along with the realities of what this might mean for the future.

“However, I can’t thank my family enough for all their support. I’m determined to not only spend as much time as I can with them but also get answers regarding how I was exposed to asbestos. 

“I’d never heard of mesothelioma before my diagnosis but I now know how horrible it is and how it affects too many families. I can’t turn the clock back but if anyone with information could come forward it would be great to hear from them and could help in getting answers.”

How you can help

Anyone with information about the conditions Chris faced during his career should contact Natalia Rushworth-White at Irwin Mitchell on 01223 791893 or email Natalia.Rushworth-White@IrwinMitchell.com

Find out more about Irwin Mitchell's expertise in supporting people and families affected by asbestos exposure at our dedicated asbestos-related disease section. Alternatively, to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100.