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“What If?” – Questions facing those with Mesothelioma or asbestos-related disease

Posted on May 6th, 2011 by John B. Woelfel

Recently, I had an ultrasound performed on my kidneys. The results showed a 4-inch, solid lesion on the left kidney. Generally, solid lesions on the kidney are cancerous, but fortunately, a follow-up CT scan showed that the original ultrasound was incorrect.

This experience created in me a greater empathy for our clients, especially those who suffer from mesothelioma and lung cancer. During the time frame in which it appeared I had kidney cancer, I was consumed with thoughts of “what if?”

What if don’t see my children graduate from high school or college? What if I don’t see them get married? Have I instilled in them enough fortitude to get by in their lives in the best possible manner?

This time of worry also made me consider the financial situation for myself and my family. I wondered how my family would cope with the loss of my income, should I perish.

I know that my temporary experience is the current reality for many of our mesothelioma clients. And I know that depositions can seem difficult for clients when these thoughts, worries, and “what ifs” weigh heavily on the mind. However, doing a deposition will help with a mesothelioma client’s case a great deal. Therefore, it’s important to get complete depositions with our clients who have these illnesses as soon as we can.

My job as an attorney is to get our client through their case when they are living with many difficulties, and I believe this new empathy will make me a better advocate for my clients’ cause.

To discuss your asbestos case, please contact John B. Woelfel.