February
Rare Disease Day
Where: Global
On the last day of February each year, many national and international organizations band together in support of those living with a rare disease. Mesothelioma represents less than .03 percent of all cancer diagnoses in the U.S. Given this rarity, we work with the Rare Disease Day campaign to help mesothelioma patients make their voices heard.
March
National Nutrition Month
Where: United States
Throughout March, advocacy centers like ours pay special attention to nutrition as March is National Nutrition Month. A nutritious diet is incredibly important for mesothelioma patients after their diagnosis. A proper diet can help counteract some of the most common side effects caused by cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation. During National Nutrition Month, created by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, we encourage mesothelioma patients to focus on eating right. This ensures patients get all the nutritional benefits they can from a balanced diet.
Support Group for Coping with Mesothelioma
Where: Online or by phone
Our monthly support group creates a unique opportunity for mesothelioma patients and caregivers to interact with others facing the same rare diagnosis. Participants are given a safe space to ask questions and share their experiences as the group is moderated by registered nurse Karen Selby and licensed mental health counselor Dana Nolan.
Certified Nurses Day
Where: United States
Nurses are often the medical professional patients will spend the most time with throughout their cancer journey. With this in mind, on March 19 we celebrate Certified Nurses Day in order to recognize and thank certified nurses for all the hard work that they do to help patients through some of the most difficult moments in their lives.
9th International Symposium on Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Where: Bethesda, Maryland
The 9th International Symposium on Malignant Mesothelioma, hosted by the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, will take place just outside Washington, D.C., starting on March 25. This Symposium will feature numerous seminars led by experts in the field of mesothelioma research as well as give survivors and caregivers an opportunity to interact with others going through similar hardships.
National Doctor’s Day
Where: United States
On March 30, Americans celebrate the contributions and achievements made by doctors and physicians in all medical areas. National Doctor’s Day was first celebrated in 1933, although it was not an official national holiday until 1990. On this day, we honor mesothelioma treatment pioneers such as Dr. David Sugarbaker. We also take time to recognize those who continue to contribute to the field of mesothelioma care and strive to find a cure for this rare cancer.
April
National Asbestos Awareness Week
Where: United States
While asbestos use in the U.S. has declined significantly in past decades, Americans still run the risk of being exposed and not even knowing it. During the week of April 1-7, we take part the national and global campaigns to raise awareness for this deadly carcinogen and the many asbestos-related diseases it causes, including mesothelioma.
Testicular Cancer Awareness Month
Where: United States
Testicular mesothelioma is the rarest form of the cancer, accounting for less than 1 percent of all mesothelioma cases each year. However, the fact that it is still possible means Testicular Cancer Awareness Month has a special significance to some members of the mesothelioma community. We recognize and support those who battled this extremely rare subset of an already rare disease.
ADAO’s 15th Annual March for Asbestos Victims Remembrance and Justice
Where: Washington, D.C.
This annual event gives an opportunity for those affected by asbestos to participate in a social action march for change. This march follows a 2-mile walking route from the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool to Capitol Hill. March participants will be encouraged to show remembrance for their loved ones as well as participate in a call on the EPA to finally ban asbestos without any loopholes or exemptions.
Annual International Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference
Where: Washington, D.C.
The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization will host their annual conference on asbestos awareness and prevention April 5-7 in Washington, D.C. This conference will feature numerous experts, survivors and lawmakers from around the world in a united two-day conference to share new insight and support for those affected by asbestos-related diseases.
Support Group for Coping with Mesothelioma
Where: 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.
Workers Memorial Day
Where: United States
According to the Agency for Toxic Substances & Disease Registry, an estimated 27 million workers were exposed to asbestos between 1940 and 1979. As a result, mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases have killed countless American workers. On April 28, we recognize all workers who lost their lives because of the careless use of asbestos in this country.
May
National Cancer Research Month
Where: United States
With mesothelioma being such a rare cancer, new research on the disease is even more important. During the month of May, advocacy groups help raise awareness and support for all the amazing cancer research that is done every year. New cancer research can help create treatment options that improve the quality of life for mesothelioma patients.
North American Occupational Safety and Health Week
Where: North America
Asbestos exposure in the workplace is not a problem of the past. Asbestos can still be found across the country and some professionals such as firefighters, contractors and those in the abatement industry still have a high probability of encountering this deadly carcinogen. North American Occupational Safety and Health Week aims to support the health and safety of all workers across North America. We use this time to continue promoting awareness for those at high risk of asbestos exposure.
Support Group for Coping with Mesothelioma
Where: Online or by phone
Patients and caregivers are given the opportunity to join this safe space for discussion either online or by phone. During this monthly meeting, lead by a licensed mental health counselor with support by our on-staff nurse, participants are given the freedom to ask some of the toughest questions they may be grappling with.
National Women’s Health Week
Where: United States
While women are less likely to be diagnosed with mesothelioma than men, the ratio is closing. Second-hand asbestos exposure accounts for a large portion of mesothelioma cases in women. During National Women’s Health Week, we recognize and raise awareness for all women battling or who have battled this rare cancer.
International Clinical Trials Day
Where: Global
Clinical trials not only help create groundbreaking research in the field of mesothelioma care but also help increase affordability to those battling this terrible disease. International Clinical Trials Day is a well-deserved break in order to recognize health professionals who conduct clinical trials and thank them for the public good they provide.
June
32nd Annual National Cancer Survivors Day
Where: United States
National Cancer Survivors Day is a special celebration of life for those living with a history of cancer. On this day, survivors are given the chance to connect with others, celebrate achievements and show appreciation for those who supported them along the way. This day also serves as an opportunity for the cancer community to bring attention to current challenges, with the goal of encouraging more research, resources and legislation to help cancer survivors.
International Men's Health/Cancer Awareness Week
Where: Global
Mesothelioma disproportionately affects more men than women. International Men's Health/Cancer Awareness Week is our chance to show remembrance and support for our fathers, brothers, uncles and sons affected by this rare cancer. This time is also a chance to raise awareness and support for preventable diseases among men.
Support Group for Coping with Mesothelioma
Where: Online or by phone
This monthly support group — exclusive for mesothelioma patients and caregivers — gives participants a much-needed opportunity to discuss and share their experiences in a safe and informative environment. This support group is accessible either online or by phone. It is led by licensed mental health counselor Dana Nolan and our on-staff registered nurse Karen Selby.
July
Support Group for Coping with Mesothelioma
Where: Online or by phone
Patients and caregivers of those directly affected by mesothelioma are given the opportunity to discuss their thoughts and worries with others going through mesothelioma battles. The goal of this support group is to provide a safe space where those affected by mesothelioma can get answers to their questions and worries.
