Nebraska firefighter makes it through mesothelioma surgery
Fire Captain David Chesser of Beaumont Professional Firefighters Local 399 underwent surgery at an Omaha, Nebraska hospital in early July. Captain Chesser’s surgery spanned several hours. Chesser was diagnosed with mesothelioma, and his surgery removed most of the cancer. In trying to remove all of the tumor, the surgeons removed parts of his pancreas, his appendix and his spleen.
A benefit raffle sponsored by the Beaumont Professional Firefighters Local 399 will help raise funds to help Chesser with his medical expenses. Tickets cost $5 each and can be purchased from any Beaumont firefighter. The drawing for all seven prizes will take place on August 1, 2009 at Number 1 Fire Station.
There has been a growing awareness that firefighters are occupationally exposed to asbestos and consequently are at risk for developing mesothelioma. See related story. As a result of this growing awareness, in the future firefighters may be better prepared for this particular hazard in an already dangerous job. Because mesothelioma takes decades to develop, however, efforts to decrease asbestos exposure will not show immediate results.
For the full story, go to KFDM.
