People from all kinds of backgrounds have been impacted by mesothelioma and asbestos. The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) strives to honor such people at its annual Asbestos Awareness Conference. This year, ADAO will honor the following individuals and organizations for their contributions to the asbestos and mesothelioma cause.
- Ellen Patton
Award: Alan Reinstein Award
As a client of Simmons Hanly Conroy, Ellen has experienced firsthand the devastation of a mesothelioma diagnosis. She is a steadfast asbestos awareness advocate – she delivered a speech titled “A Patient’s Mesothelioma Journey” at a Senate briefing in 2013 in Washington D.C. She has also started a soap making business that donates 10 percent of its profits to ADAO.“After outliving the 12 to 18 months prognosis I was given, I felt it was my duty to warn oth-ers of the dangers of asbestos,” Ellen said in a Simmons Hanly Conroy interview. “I needed to speak for those who had gone before me and could speak no more.” - Dr. Jorma Rantanen
Award: Dr. Irving Selikoff Lifetime Achievement Award
When it comes to spreading asbestos awareness and advocating for the elimination of asbestos-related diseases like mesothelioma, Dr. Rantanen has worked tirelessly. He will be honored by ADAO on April 18. - Troi Atkinson
Award: Warren Zevon “Keep Me in Your Heart” Award
As an ADAO Ambassador who is constantly working to increase mesothelioma and asbestos awareness, Troi is a major part of ADAO’s efforts. He also has a direct connection to the cause – Troi is a mesothelioma patient. See him perform a song titled “Not Ready Yet” in this exclusive video for ADAO. - American Public Health Association (APHA)
Award: Tribute of Unity Award
APHA has relentlessly pursued the protection of public health through the ban of asbestos on both an international and national level. The organization has also worked tirelessly to spread asbestos awareness and education. - International Mesothelioma Interest Group (iMig)
Award: Tribute of Hope Award
The effort to advance mesothelioma treatment and find a cure may seem long, but iMig has not given up. This organization is being awarded for their unwavering dedication to patient support and mesothelioma treatment advancements. - The Brazilian Labour Public Ministry
Award: Tribute of Inspiration Award
This organization has made a profound effort to protect workers’ safety and health, especially among asbestos workers and victims. Through the constant pursuit of justice and truth, this organization strives for asbestos awareness.
