MATT RODDA MP ATTENDS MESOTHELIOMA ACTION DAY EVENT IN READING

READING EAST MP MATT RODDA was honoured to chair the Action Mesothelioma Day event organised by the Berkshire Asbestos Support Group (BASG) at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Caversham Bridge on Friday 7 July 2017.

Keynote speeches were delivered by Dr Chris Davies a consultant at the Royal Berkshire Hospital, Amy Kerr a research nurse with a special interest in Mesothelioma and Deirdre Smith a local businesswoman whose father died from Mesothelioma. After a reception of tea and cake, a dove release took place to remember those who have died from asbestos-related diseases followed by the observation of a one-minute silence.

Mesothelioma is an incurable aggressive asbestos related cancer. BASG provides support and advice for local sufferers of asbestos related illnesses and their families. The event was supported by Reading legal firm Boyes Turner LLP who sadly see many cases of this disease in the Reading area. Nationally, there are around 2,500 deaths annually due to Mesothelioma, a figure which is predicted to remain constant up to 2020, with an estimated 60,000 deaths over the next three decades. The main aim of the Action Day was to raise awareness of Mesothelioma in the town.

Speaking after the Action Day, Matt said:

“I’d like to thank the Berkshire Asbestos Support Group and Boyes Turner LLP for their work with victims of Mesothelioma and their families . I was very moved by the stories I heard today, and felt that the good news about ongoing medical research was very encouraging. I hope that we can do more to raise awareness of this terrible condition, and look forward to working with them further.”