September
Mesothelioma Awareness Day
Where: Global
Mesothelioma Awareness Day takes place annually on Sept. 26. There are only about 3,000 mesothelioma cases diagnosed each year in the United States, and this day serves as the main opportunity to show your support for those battling this rare cancer.
October
Health Literacy Month
Where: United States
Knowledge is power when it comes to treating and fighting mesothelioma. Because of the rarity of this cancer, misdiagnosis is all too common. If you have a history of asbestos exposure, understanding early warning signs is one of the best ways to help with early detection of this disease.
4th Annual The Em' Golf Tournament/Dinner Party
1 p.m. EDTWhere: Greer, South Carolina
The 4th Annual The Em' Golf Tournament/Dinner Party honors the life of Emily Brown Kocis, who was diagnosed with malignant pleural mesothelioma at the age of 25 and died in 2017. The event raises money and awareness to help find a cure for mesothelioma.
Rare Diseases and Orphan Products Breakthrough Summit
Where: Virtual
This summit will cover topics such as the COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on the rare disease community, drug pricing, advancements in technology, tools for accelerating cures and more. It runs Oct. 8-9.
Support Group for Coping with Mesothelioma
8 p.m. EDTWhere: Online or by phone
This monthly support group — exclusive to mesothelioma patients and caregivers — gives participants a much-needed opportunity to ask questions and share their experiences in a safe place.
IASLC 2020 North America Conference on Lung Cancer
Where: Virtual
Learn about the latest developments in lung cancer prevention, detection and care with novel data presentations. This worldwide event runs Oct. 16-17.
Invisible Disabilities Week
Where: Global
Mesothelioma and other cancers don’t always have symptoms that are visible to others. Invisible Disabilities Week 2020 takes place Oct. 18-24. During this time, communities are encouraged to help recognize and raise awareness for those battling the stigma sometimes associated with diseases with less visible symptoms.
November
Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Where: United States
Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States. Asbestos exposure causes an estimated 4% of all lung cancer cases. During Lung Cancer Awareness Month, we support those with lung cancer by educating others on common causes and risk factors associated with this disease.
National Family Caregivers Month
Where: United States
During the month of November, we take extra time to show our appreciation to mesothelioma caregivers. These selfless individuals work tirelessly to help mesothelioma patients focus on what matters most: Fighting this disease.
Kick Out Mesothelioma 5-Miler & 2.5-Mile Walk
10 a.m. ESTWhere: Portland, Maine
The Kick Out Mesothelioma 5-Miler & 2.5-Mile Walk is held in memory of John W. Griffin, a pipefitter, Navy veteran and city councilor who died in 2003 of cancer, including mesothelioma. Proceeds benefit mesothelioma research.
Support Group for Coping with Mesothelioma
8 p.m. ESTWhere: Online or by phone
Patients and caregivers of those battling mesothelioma are welcome to discuss their thoughts and worries with others affected by this rare cancer. The goal of this support group is to provide a safe space where those impacted by mesothelioma can get answers to their questions and worries.
December
Rare Disease Innovation and Partnering Summit
Where: Cambridge, Massachusetts
The Rare Disease Innovation and Partnering Summit, which runs Dec. 2-4, convenes the industry, patient groups, investors and policy makers to discuss areas of unmet medical needs and create life-transforming therapies and breakthroughs.
Support Group for Coping with Mesothelioma
8 p.m. ESTWhere: Online or by phone
Mesothelioma is not a disease you need to battle alone. Our monthly support group makes it possible for you to discuss difficult topics with other mesothelioma survivors and caregivers. Our registered nurse and licensed mental health counselor moderate the session to help answer questions and ensure you're in a safe space.
