“My name is Helen. Michael, my husband joined the building industry to become a joiner straight out of education. He was very fit, healthy and successful until in October 1997 when unfortunately, this changed.
Michael noticed a pain in his shoulder. After going through the process of doctor, physio, and hospital visits, Michael was diagnosed with mesothelioma in spring 1998, something we knew little about but soon discovered! In August 1999, after taking part in a new drug trial that he was offered, Michael sadly lost his fight at the age of 54.
This was a painful and devastating time for us all, with no real support other than from each other and our family. Back in July 2023, I discovered Mesothelioma UK, an organisation that I know for which we would have been grateful in 1997.
And so, I had a crazy idea that if nothing else, we could help to create more awareness as so many people have still not heard of and don’t understand mesothelioma, or how many people can still be at risk.
With the help of my son, daughter, family and friends, the event took shape, with music, a raffle and amateur performances from Freddie Mercury, The Three Degrees, Elton John, Katie Melua and Tina Turner.
The support was amazing, and the event was a great success and lots of fun, raising both money and awareness. We raised an incredible £2,292. Thank you so much to everyone involved.”
