UKATA is proud to have been part of Dave & Ali’s Meso Ball 2024, a fundraising evening held on October 12, 2024, at Stockport Football Club in support of mesothelioma research and awareness. The event, in collaboration with Mesothelioma UK, brought together over 300 guests to raise vital funds for research into mesothelioma.
During the event, attendees, including UKATA’s COO, Craig Evans and Senior Operations Manager, Debbie Nixon, heard powerful stories, including the journey of Dave Staley, who was diagnosed with mesothelioma in October 2015, despite never knowingly being exposed to asbestos. In 2013/14 Dave began experiencing flu-like symptoms with pain in his back and fatigue. He visited the doctors but having never worked with asbestos, he wasn’t the normal mesothelioma patient, especially at such a young age. Mesothelioma is more common in men than in women and nearly half of the people diagnosed with the disease are over 75 years old. Exposure to asbestos is responsible for up to 9 out of 10 mesothelioma cases.
Dave’s story, highlighted the importance of continued research and the vital support provided to those living with the disease.
The Meso Ball successfully raised significant funds for Mesothelioma UK, from ticket sales, prize raffles and an auction, helping to ensure that individuals affected by mesothelioma receive the care and support they need, the same as Dave and his family had. UKATA was proud to contribute to the evening by donating a prize to the raffle, further supporting the fundraising efforts that will help ensure mesothelioma patients receive the care and support they deserve. Mesothelioma UK is the national charity for anyone affected by mesothelioma. They exist to support people with mesothelioma to live better and live longer and to prevent mesothelioma happening to future generations. They do this by advocating for better treatment and care, enhancing quality of life, supporting research and amplifying the patient’s voice.
Speaking on her attendance at the event UKATA’s Senior Operations Manager, Debbie Nixon said “I am grateful to have been invited to such a special event, and hearing from Dave and Ali on the night, again highlights the importance the work we do at UKATA. It was truly inspiring to be part of an evening dedicated to such an important cause.”
Following the event, organiser Dave Staley reached out to say “Words cannot begin to describe how overwhelmed we are with all your incredible generosity and support for us all as a family last night and to Mesothelioma UK. It was an amazing night with you all, we didn’t want it to stop! Total raised so far on the night: a huge £18,467.51!!! Overall total so far £31,361.74!! Massive massive thank you to you all. An unforgettable awesome night.”
If you were unable to attend the event, but wish to donate you can do so here: Donate to Dave's Meso Ball
UKATA, a leading association, is dedicated to enhancing the quality and standards of asbestos training with the aim to shield workers and the public from the hazards of asbestos exposure.
The association collaborates closely with its members to guarantee that they have access to the latest information, training resources, and industry updates. They provide a suite of support services to assist them in accomplishing their training objectives. Their membership encompasses a diverse array of organisations involved in asbestos training, including training providers, asbestos removal contractors, consultants, and equipment suppliers.
UKATA is fervent about promoting safe and responsible working practices, committed to working with members and partners to realise a shared vision of protecting workers and the public from the hazards linked with asbestos exposure.
Published on Monday 21st October 2024