Mesothelioma survivor dedicated to raising awareness about deadly illness

Florida resident Larry Davis is well aware of the challenges and hardships that face those affected by mesothelioma. Not only has he seen his father succumb to the illness after being exposed to asbestos while working at a box manufacturing company, but Davis himself is a survivor of peritoneal mesothelioma.

Because of his experiences with mesothelioma, Davis has committed himself to doing whatever it takes to raise awareness about the illness and help organizations raise money for research. Among the more significant achievements he has accomplished was the role he played in working with the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation to establish September 26 as National Mesothelioma Awareness Day after gaining the support of 50 members of Congress.

“It’s hard to believe that a group such as ours could go to [Washington D.C.] and get the attention of Congress and get them to do something,” Davis said, according to the Ft. Lauderdale, Florida-based Sun-Sentinel. “It’s huge. I feel pretty good about what we did.”

Additionally, Davis has also had a hand in the organization of a Miles for Meso 5K that took place in Boca Raton back in February and raised nearly $15,000 for MARF.

Following the run, Davis, who has always been a runner, told the Chicago Tribune that the cardiovascular activity had helped him fight the disease.

“What you get out of running is more than cardiovascular. It's a whole mind-body connection,” he said. “It helps build the immune system, and that's key in fighting any disease. It's not a cure, but it makes you stronger."

For those who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or asbestos cancer that can be linked to exposure caused by a product or former employer, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Contact an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to learn more about your rights, and to see if pursuing a mesothelioma settlement is in your best interest.