Brenda’s Story

After being diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma, Brenda Ward became a client of Simmons Hanly Conroy, a leading national asbestos law firm.

A St. Louis-area resident, Brenda had been a victim of take-home asbestos exposure as a child, meaning her father unknowingly brought asbestos fibers home on his work clothes. Later in life, she was again exposed to take-home asbestos exposure through her ex-husband, a mechanic.

In 2004, after experiencing symptoms of swelling in her abdomen and trouble breathing, Brenda consulted a doctor. A CT scan revealed a dark mass on her abdomen, and the doctor told her she may have peritoneal mesothelioma, a rare asbestos cancer of the abdomen.

Brenda had never heard of peritoneal mesothelioma before her diagnosis. After a period of shock and devastation, she began to research asbestos cancer and resolved to face her disease head on. She found a mesothelioma specialist who was able to help her combat the disease with a treatment plan including multiple surgeries and chemotherapy.

Through Brenda’s mesothelioma stories, it quickly becomes apparent that her faith, family and positive attitude have pushed her to survive and make the most of her life.

After experiencing multiple difficult surgeries and treatment plans, Brenda stresses to other mesothelioma victims the importance of finding asbestos attorneys and qualified specialists.

Why File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Diagnosis

After a series of preliminary tests, Brenda finds out she has peritoneal mesothelioma.

Brenda shares her first reaction to a mesothelioma diagnosis.

Brenda learns all she can about mesothelioma in preparation for telling her family.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Surgery

Brenda shares the doctors’ plan to try and eradicate mesothelioma from her abdomen.

Brenda describes the process for her debulking surgery.

After debulking surgery, Brenda spends six more weeks in the hospital.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Chemotherapy

Brenda starts chemotherapy.

Brenda describes her complications with surgery and chemotherapy.

Brenda recounts the effects of chemotherapy.

Brenda’s Advice for Mesothelioma Patients

“Get the right oncologist,” Brenda says as she stresses the importance of finding a doctor you feel comfortable with.

Keeping yourself busy and staying positive are Brenda’s most important pieces of advice for other mesothelioma patients.

“Next for me is to keep on pushing forward,” says Brenda as she shares her hopes for the future.

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Learn More About Filing A Mesothelioma Lawsuit

Download our guide:
Asbestos Litigation, Your Guide to the Legal Process.

Filing a mesothelioma lawsuit can help you cover medical expenses and secure your family’s future well-being for years to come. Our mesothelioma lawyers will make the process as easy as possible for you and guide you through the legal system. Learn more about what to expect when filing a mesothelioma lawsuit by downloading our free introductory guide.

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The Simmons Hanly Conroy Editorial Team consists of journalists, writers and editors who strive to deliver accurate and useful information to families needing legal help. Our team works alongside the firm's attorneys and partners, as well as with medical professionals and other specialists, to keep all information relevant and helpful.