Woman Diagnosed with Cancer Links Illness to Asbestos Exposure

A woman from Blackburn, Lancashire, has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, which she believes may be linked to asbestos exposure from her brother’s work clothes. Marie Pickup, aged 68, was diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma after a routine chest X-ray revealed concerning changes in her abdomen. This type of cancer, associated with asbestos exposure, has left her and her family searching for answers.

Marie’s brother worked as a joiner at the Blackburn Corporation, now known as Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, from 1980 to 1985. She recalls hugging him daily when he returned home, often covered in dust from his job. “I remember my brother coming home from work with his clothes covered in dust,” Marie stated. “I used to hug him as soon as he got in, and I was often there when my mum shook out his work clothes in the kitchen to get rid of the dust.”

In her reflection on the past, Marie expressed shock and sadness over the potential cause of her illness. She had enjoyed gardening and spending time on a narrowboat with her husband, Tony, but now finds her activities limited due to abdominal pain. Tragically, her brother has since passed away, adding emotional weight to her search for clarity regarding her diagnosis.

To further understand her situation, Marie has enlisted the help of specialist asbestos-related disease lawyers at Irwin Mitchell. The firm is now appealing for information from individuals who worked for Blackburn Corporation during the 1980s, particularly those involved in the renovation of council-owned deck access flats or the refurbishment of the Delph Estate on Shadsworth Road.

Helen Tomlin, the lawyer representing Marie, emphasized the serious implications of asbestos exposure. “Marie’s diagnosis is a stark reminder of the devastating legacy of asbestos exposure, which can affect not only workers but also their loved ones many years later,” she said. Tomlin highlighted that secondary exposure to asbestos is a significant concern and noted that many similar cases have emerged over the years.

While nothing can undo Marie’s diagnosis, the legal team is committed to uncovering the truth behind her exposure. Tomlin urged anyone with relevant information to come forward, stating, “If anyone who worked for Blackburn Corporation in the early 1980s could provide insights, it could be crucial in helping Marie and her family understand how she was exposed to asbestos.”

As Marie continues to battle her illness, her story serves as a reminder of the long-term consequences of asbestos exposure. Families affected by similar situations are encouraged to seek legal assistance and share their experiences to shed light on this ongoing public health issue.