Tony Carlton, a retired firefighter from Aberdare, has lived a life marked by service, both as a volunteer firefighter and a charity organiser. His years of battling blazes in rural areas, often encountering asbestos-laden structures, unknowingly set the stage for a severe health battle: mesothelioma
Diagnosed in early 2019 and faced with a grim prognosis, Tony’s resilience and groundbreaking treatment have carved a path of hope and recovery that was once deemed unlikely.Â
Tony was frequently exposed to asbestos, particularly at barn fires, with asbestos sheeting during his firefighting days. This exposure led to a mesothelioma diagnosis at the age of 82. Initially told he had six months to live, Tony was offered chemotherapy, which could extend his life by three months. Reflecting on that moment, Tony said, "The option of just three more months didn’t seem worth the suffering from chemotherapy side effects. I wanted something that gave me a chance at a quality life."Â
Tony opted for immunotherapy with Nivolumab, facilitated by compensation secured through a legal claim with the assistance of Thompsons Solicitors. Â
Nivolumab, a pioneering drug, works by reactivating the body’s immune system to recognise and destroy cancer cells. It inhibits the PD-1 protein on T cells, allowing the immune system to attack cancer more effectively.Â
This treatment at the time Tony needed it, was unavailable on the NHS and required private funding, which Tony's compensation helped secure. "Without the settlement, there was no way I could afford the immunotherapy. It’s not just about the money; it’s about having the chance to fight back," Tony explained.Â
The results of Tony’s immunotherapy were nothing short of remarkable. Within months, his energy returned, and the symptoms that once debilitated him significantly receded. "I feel like I’ve been given a second shot at life," Tony remarked, reflecting on his improved health. " In early 2020, I couldn’t walk to the shop without being out of breath. Now, I’m out in the garden growing vegetables."Â
"Last year, we received a card from the King and Queen for our Diamond wedding anniversary. It's one of those milestones you celebrate with joy, especially considering everything we've been through. It fills me with hope that I'll be here to celebrate another one in 14 years when I turn 100.Â
"When we moved here, we had five lawns. Now we have just two, as I dug the others up for vegetable plots. That shows how well I feel these days. I’m out there every day, rain or shine. Â
In August 2022, a CT scan confirmed the full impact of his treatment: there was no detectable trace of mesothelioma. The hospital’s letter stated a "complete response to treatment," a result that Tony describes as "beyond what I dared to hope for."Â
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Tony’s story is also a testament to the crucial role of legal expertise in navigating the complexities of asbestos-related claims. Amanda Jones, Tony's solicitor, noted, "Tony’s case highlights the critical importance of accessing groundbreaking treatments through legal channels. While not everyone responds the same way, Tony's case is proof of the potential benefits these treatments can offer."Â
Looking forward, Tony remains an advocate for others facing similar battles. "If my story can help even one person get the treatment they need, then it’s worth telling," he said.Â
His experience with Nivolumab illustrates the significant potential of immunotherapy in treating diseases that once had few options, offering many hope.Â
Asbestos disease diagnosis? Talk to us for advice and support on how to secure compensation.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, we can support you with advice on how to make a claim.
The process will be explained in plain English and with no obligation – our priority is to provide you with the best, expert advice on whether you have a valid case for compensation, and to signpost you to further sources of support.
There are strict time limits applied to making a claim – usually three years from the date of diagnosis. It doesn’t matter if the exposure to asbestos took place – as it often does – decades ago, the three year time limit applies to the date of knowledge of diagnosis or date of death.
For further information, visit our How to Make A Compensation Claim page.
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