Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer affecting the mesothelium tissue lining the lungs, stomach, heart, and other organs. The majority of people with this form of cancer were exposed to airborne asbestos particles at some stage in their lives, which the human body cannot break down or expel. 

As a result, the particles can remain in the body, where they can cause scarring and damage to sensitive tissues. Sometimes, these particles can also lead to cancer and other asbestos-related illnesses.

While we have put many steps in place to prevent asbestos exposure events, we are still dealing with the aftermath of widespread asbestos use before the year 2000.

If you have received a mesothelioma diagnosis and want to arm yourself with as much information as possible, here are some of the best mesothelioma foundations in New Zealand and overseas.

 

Cancer Society of New Zealand

New Zealand doesn’t have a designated mesothelioma foundation, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be able to access the support you need. The Cancer Society is dedicated to supporting people with all cancer types throughout New Zealand.

You can rely on them for support services, driving services, and even accommodation. You and your whanau are well taken care of when you rely on the Cancer Society of New Zealand for help.

 

International Mesothelioma Program

For many people suffering from mesothelioma, it can sometimes feel like you’re on your own because it’s such a rare diagnosis to get. However, you’re not, and the International Mesothelioma Program (IMP) is doing all it can to set a new standard for approaching the disease.

This program is run at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts, and is now the largest mesothelioma care center in the world. Their goal is to diagnose and treat mesothelioma while also engaging in research to generate advancements in care and ground-breaking research.

 

Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation

While not as well-known as other foundations, the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation is the epitome of research, education, support, and advocacy for those suffering from this life-changing condition.

This foundation is the only non-profit charity organisation set up to fund research into improving treatment options, providing treatment support and education, and advocating for research funding.

 

The June Hancock Mesothelioma Research Fund

The June Hancock Mesothelioma Research Fund is based in the UK and was the very first and now largest independent mesothelioma charity. They have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to be spent on research into mesothelioma diagnosis and treatment.  

This charity is named after Jane Hancock. Jane successfully sued asbestos factory owners whose negligence resulted in her illness and subsequent death.

 

Pacific Mesothelioma Center

The Pacific Mesothelioma Center forms part of the Los Angeles-based The Pacific Heart, Lung & Blood Institute. Even though Los Angeles is a world away, it’s hard not to be impressed by the exceptional work medical researchers at this facility are doing for everyone suffering from this illness.

The Center is a non-profit research institution that focuses on medical research advancement. They have an in-house lab and team that are working hard to make progress in treating mesothelioma.

 

Mesothelioma UK

Mesothelioma UK is one of the best resources for families currently managing a mesothelioma diagnosis. This foundation provides a wide range of helpful resources to educate you on what mesothelioma is and what support is available.

To date, Mesothelioma UK has received over 1,600 calls, helped 180 patients, awarded over £24,000 in travel grants, and was awarded £1m for research since 2015. While it’s not based here in New Zealand, mesothelioma research carried out anywhere in the world can undoubtedly benefit any future patients, no matter where they’re based.

 

National Cancer Institute

The National Cancer Institute forms part of the United States Department of Health and Human Services and is a federal cancer research agency. Not only does it coordinate their country’s national cancer programme, but they conduct and fund research, offer financing, and train cancer researchers.

The National Cancer Institute’s primary goal is to support cancer prevention, offer fast diagnosis, and provide effective treatment.

 

Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization

The sad reality is that not everyone understands what asbestos is and what it’s capable of. Some people aren’t even aware that it’s lurking in tens of thousands of our homes – even today. That’s where the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) comes in.

This organisation is the largest independent asbestos organisation for victims in the United States and is dedicated to preventing exposure, eliminating asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma, and protecting victims’ civil rights.

 

Help is Available

Whether you need direct help through Cancer Society NZ or information and resources from international platforms, these foundations above may be helpful. You are not alone in your diagnosis, so seek help and find out just how many people are rallying around you, ready to support you through your toughest life challenge yet.