February
National Cancer Prevention Month
Where: United States
February is National Cancer Prevention Month. During this time, it is important to remember asbestos is not a problem of the past. We ask others to help raise awareness of the dangers of asbestos and encourage anyone with a history of asbestos exposure to get routine mesothelioma screenings.
World Cancer Day
Where: Global
Each year on February 4th, we come together on World Cancer Day, which gives everyone across the globe a chance to rally in support of those battling cancer of any kind. Our goal, and the goal of organizations around the world, is to make our voices heard as we fight for a world without cancer. This year we also celebrate the 20th anniversary of World Cancer Day.
National Cancer Prevention Day
Where: United States
The United States House of Representatives passed a resolution recognizing National Cancer Prevention Day in 2013 as part of an effort to ensure our nation continues to work toward preventing and reducing the risk of cancer worldwide.
Support Group for Coping with Mesothelioma
Where: Online or by phone
On the second Wednesday of every month, Dana Nolan, a licensed mental health counselor, moderates a support group dedicated to mesothelioma patients and caregivers. Open only to those directly affected by mesothelioma, our goal is to offer an environment for survivors and family members to share their thoughts and questions with others going through a mesothelioma battle.
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% of all cancer diagnoses in the U.S. each year. Given this rarity, we work to help raise awareness and support for mesothelioma patients on this day to ensure their voices are 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
On the second Wednesday of every month, Dana Nolan, a licensed mental health counselor, moderates a support group dedicated to mesothelioma patients and caregivers. Open only to those directly affected by mesothelioma, our goal is to offer an environment for survivors and family members to share their thoughts and questions with others going through a mesothelioma battle.
Certified Nurses Day
This national day of recognition honors the important achievement of nursing specialty, subspecialty and advanced practice certification – and provides a perfect opportunity to acknowledge and thank certified nurses for their hard work, dedication and commitment to excellence.
15th Meeting of the International Mesothelioma Interest Group
Where: Brisbane, Australia
The International Mesothelioma Interest Group (iMig) brings together experts and delegates from all over the world who are working to understand, cure and prevent mesothelioma. The 15th meeting of the iMig will take place in Brisbane, Australia on March 25-25, 2020. Attendees will have access to educational sessions with leading experts, and opportunities to interact with leading scientists, researchers, friends and colleagues.
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 in 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.
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 3-5 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.
10th International Symposium on Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma
Where: San Antonio, Texas
The 10th International Symposium on Malignant Mesothelioma, hosted by the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, will take place in San Antonio, Texas., starting on April 6. 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 who understand what it’s like to battle this rare cancer.
Support Group for Coping with Mesothelioma
Where: Online or by phone
Our monthly support group meets on the second Wednesday of every month with the goal of giving mesothelioma patients and caregivers a safe space to learn about and discuss their diagnosis. Moderated by Dana Nolan, a licensed mental health counselor, and medical support offered by our on-staff nurse Karen Selby, mesothelioma patients and caregivers are given a safe space for help and support.
Worker’s 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
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.
International 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.
Support Group for Coping with Mesothelioma
Where: Online or by phone
This monthly support group — exclusive to mesothelioma patients and caregivers — gives participants a much-needed opportunity to discuss and share their experiences in a safe and informative environment. The group is accessible online or by phone. It is led by licensed mental health counselor Dana Nolan and registered nurse Karen Selby.
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
33rd 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
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.
