UKATA’s Senior Leadership Team, including Chief Operating Officer Craig Evans, Senior Operations Manager Debbie Nixon, and Operations Manager Sasha Brailsford, attended the Mesothelioma UK 19th Annual Patient and Carer Day, held on 10 October 2024, in Leeds. This event provided an invaluable opportunity for attendees to connect, share experiences, and learn about the latest research and care for those affected by mesothelioma.
The day began with a warm welcome from Lorraine Creech, Mesothelioma UK Trustee, who highlighted the charity’s impactful work supporting patients and their families. The event showcased powerful stories, starting with a moving video about Bob’s journey, produced in collaboration with Environmental Essentials and Mesothelioma UK. The video detailed Bob’s mesothelioma diagnosis and how the charity’s support became integral to his life.
Leah Taylor, Head of Nursing at Mesothelioma UK, presented significant statistics, sharing that the charity provided nearly 30,000 episodes of care last year, supporting over 1,100 patients. This demonstrates the growing demand for their crucial services, particularly the work of Mesothelioma UK’s dedicated nurses.
One of the event’s most inspiring moments came from Sue Farrall, who shared her personal story of being diagnosed with mesothelioma two years ago. Now a passionate volunteer, Sue and her group, the 'Magnificent 7,' recently completed a walking marathon, raising over £10,000 for Mesothelioma UK.
Samantha Westbrook, Mesothelioma UK's Peritoneal Clinic Nurse Specialist, delivered a compelling presentation on the variability in diagnosis and treatment of peritoneal mesothelioma, emphasising the importance of research to address misdiagnosis and improve future care pathways. Samantha is the first Peritoneal Clinical Nurse Specialist in the UK, collaborating closely with the National Peritoneal Mesothelioma Multi-Disciplinary Team.
Dr. Anna Bibby, Associate Professor and Respiratory Consultant at North Bristol NHS Trust, shared an update on the Assess Meso Study, providing real-world insights into mesothelioma through this prospective observational cohort study. Learn more about the study here.
Prof. Clare Gardiner from the Mesothelioma UK Research Centre, University of Sheffield, discussed their 11 research priorities, including five urgent areas: symptom management, diagnosis, treatment experience, palliative and end of life care, treatment experience and barriers and facilitators of joined up service provision. A key focus was on the 'Supporting our Supporters' project, which aims to improve care for mesothelioma patients’ carers. Healthcare providers can access this essential research here.
Michelle Spencer, diagnosed at 60, shared her emotional story of how a job taken in her youth led to asbestos exposure, resulting in mesothelioma 45 years later. Her message of resilience and the importance of cherishing life was a reminder of the far-reaching impact of this disease.
Other speakers included:
- Sarah Thomas, Benefits Manager at Mesothelioma UK, providing a finance update.
- Dr. Sean Dulloo, Consultant Medical Oncologist at University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, discussing current and upcoming clinical trials.
- Laura Smith, Mesothelioma UK Clinical Nurse Specialist, and Gail Hillson, who shared a touching story about supporting her husband, a mesothelioma patient, in their presentation on support for family members.
- Lee Wemyss, DASH Global, and Leah Taylor, Mesothelioma UK Head of Nursing, on the ‘Your Health Companion’ initiative.
- Fiona Enright, Highly Specialised Macmillan Oncology Dietician, Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, on the importance of diet for mesothelioma patients.
- Michaela Morris, Occupational Therapist, presenting on techniques for reflecting and relaxing.
The event was proudly sponsored by Leigh Day, Irwin Mitchell, RWK Goodman, Thompsons Solicitors, Hugh James, and The Asbestos Law Partnership LLP, whose support made the day possible.
Speaking of the event, Lorraine Creech, Mesothelioma UK Trustee, said, “Mesothelioma UK’s Patient and Carer Day is one of our most important annual events, providing patients, carers, and the wider mesothelioma community with essential information and the chance to connect. The sharing of cutting-edge research and patients’ stories is the highlight of the day. None of this would be possible without the involvement of our speakers, sponsors, and the invaluable feedback from patients and carers, which helps us continue to improve our services.”
UKATA's Senior Leadership Team was honoured to attend this impactful event, which brought together speakers from a wide range of disciplines, each contributing to the ongoing fight against mesothelioma. Speaking of the event, Operations Manager Sasha Brailsford said, "It was incredibly moving to meet mesothelioma survivors and hear their powerful stories of resilience. With over 150 people in attendance, the day highlighted the remarkable impact that ongoing research is having on patient care. Mesothelioma is a disease that does not discriminate, as was evident from the heartbreaking story of a 29-year-old woman recently diagnosed. It was also a pleasure to catch up with Dave Staley, who has previously shared his journey with the UKATA community. Collaborating with Mesothelioma UK is always an honour, and their continued dedication is truly inspiring."
UKATA remains committed to promoting the highest standards in asbestos training, working with its members to safeguard workers and the public from asbestos exposure. The association continues to provide resources, training, and industry updates to ensure safe and responsible practices, while supporting the important work of Mesothelioma UK in making a difference in the lives of those affected by this devastating disease.
About UKATA
The UK Asbestos Training Association (UKATA) sets the standards in asbestos training and ensures that its members meet those standards. UKATA is a leading association dedicated to improving the quality and standards of asbestos training to protect workers and the public from asbestos exposure. UKATA’s membership includes a wide range of organisations, including training providers, asbestos removal contractors, consultants, and equipment suppliers, all committed to promoting safe and responsible working practices. For more information, visit www.ukata.org.uk.
About Mesothelioma UK
Mesothelioma UK is the national charity dedicated to supporting those affected by mesothelioma, a cancer linked to asbestos exposure. The charity provides specialist nursing care, supports research, and aims to raise awareness to prevent future generations from being affected by mesothelioma. Mesothelioma UK also offers free advice, information, and support services for patients, carers, and healthcare professionals. For more information, visit www.mesothelioma.uk.com.
Published on Monday 14th October 2024