But in the summer of 2024, Mike began experiencing increasing breathlessness. Following investigations at Royal Cornwall Hospital, he was diagnosed with mesothelioma – an incurable cancer caused by asbestos exposure. More than 40 years after working as a plumber and maintenance worker, he discovered he was living with the consequences of workplace exposure that had taken place decades earlier. 

For Mike, the diagnosis has not only meant medical treatment; it has changed the retirement he and his wife Pam had planned. 

"I've always worked hard and just carried on, but mesothelioma changes everything. I've got eight grandchildren and a three-year-old great-grandchild, and I can't play with them the way I used to." 

He added: 

"I still like to keep myself busy, but I used to spend my retirement gardening, fishing, clay pigeon shooting and I just don't have the energy for many of the things I loved anymore. It's not just the diagnosis you have to deal with – it's the loss of the life you thought you'd have in retirement." 

 

With the support of Nicholas Seymour, Amanda Jones and Thompson's asbestos team, Mike pursued a claim relating to the asbestos exposure he experienced during his employment. The case settled shortly before trial, with liability for his exposure admitted. 

Reflecting on the wider significance of the case, Amanda Jones, Head of Asbestos at Thompsons Solicitors, said: 

"Mike's diagnosis is yet another devastating reminder that asbestos exposure is not simply a problem of the past. For years he carried out essential work without being warned about the risks he faced. Decades later, he and his family are living with the consequences. Mike's case also demonstrates that the risks associated with asbestos in local authority and public buildings are not limited to one geographical area. As concerns continue to be raised about asbestos in buildings across the UK, his story serves as a reminder that workers nationwide have been exposed without adequate protection and are still living with the consequences decades later." 

 

 

Media coverage 

Read coverage of this case as featured in:

Cornwall live

Cornish Stuff

The Falmouth Packet

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