Mesothelioma Awareness Day is celebrated annually on September 26 to support those with this deadly cancer and raise money for research, treatment, and a cure.
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused by asbestos, which was used heavily in many industries from the 1930s through the 1980s. Sadly, because mesothelioma is so rare, some people may not know about it or how devastating it can be to patients and their families.
Whether you connect with loved ones in person or participate in online fundraisers, there are many ways that you can support Mesothelioma Awareness Day in 2024.
Explore some of the things you can do to show your support below.
Participate in Special Events
Each September, various organizations host activities and events to help raise awareness about this illness and encourage donations that will be allocated toward finding a cure.
This year’s notable events include:
- Paint the World in Mesothelioma Blue: One creative way to celebrate with friends and family is to dress up in your most comfortable blue outfit, take some fun photos, and post them online with the hashtag #curemeso. Then spread your support by sharing them on your favorite social media platforms.
- Light the World Blue: Since 2020, oncology company Novocure has called on landmarks nationwide to light their facilities blue on September 26. So far, more than 70 locations have committed to join this mesothelioma awareness effort. Find a location near you to share photos, or call on your city or organization to join.
- Miles for Meso: The 16th annual Alton Miles for Meso 5K Run and 3K Fun Run & Walk will be hosted both virtually and in person this year, with proceeds benefiting the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO). You can cheer on the racers in person if you’re near Alton, Illinois, or by using the #MilesForMeso tag on social media.
A full list of events scheduled this year can be found on the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation website. You can also launch your own fundraiser for trusted mesothelioma research organizations.
Curious about how to prevent asbestos from harming your loved ones? Check out our Free Asbestos Guide to learn more about the risks and how to stay safe.
Help Mesothelioma Organizations
Notable groups like the Meso Foundation and the ADAO are celebrating National Mesothelioma Awareness Day this year. These nonprofit organizations were founded by medical experts and loved ones of those with mesothelioma to raise funds for cancer research.
You can help these groups by:
- Following them on social media platforms such as Facebook, X, and Instagram
- Making an online donation (both the Meso Foundation and ADAO accept donations)
- Spreading the word about these organizations and their missions
Connecting with these groups online can help them grow their donation base and promote awareness of mesothelioma.
Visit Loved Ones With Mesothelioma
This special day is a great reminder to visit with friends or family members who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. Spending time with them is one way to show that you are here to support them.
If your loved ones live far away or are receiving mesothelioma treatment in a hospital, you can call them or use a video conferencing app like FaceTime, Skype, or Zoom. This is a great way to stay connected and let them know how much you care about them.
Want to discover more ways you can help? Feel free to download our comprehensive mesothelioma guide for more information.
Spread Awareness and Push for an Asbestos Ban
Despite 70 countries already banning asbestos, the mineral is still used and imported into the United States, putting even more people at risk of exposure and serious illnesses.
Last year, the ADAO advocated for the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now (ARBAN) Act of 2023 to be reintroduced in Congress. If passed, the act would result in a complete ban on asbestos in the U.S. to protect future generations from this deadly mineral.
You can join the efforts for an asbestos-free future by sending letters to your government representatives and asking them to support the ARBAN Act.
Additionally, you can share facts about asbestos and mesothelioma on social media and encourage your network to join the fight.
Share Your Story
Depending on your comfort level, opening up about your own experiences with mesothelioma can help encourage and inspire others, especially if they are new to this community and are seeking a safe and welcoming environment.
You can share your stories on National Mesothelioma Awareness Day with us by contacting Mesothelioma Hope.
The ADAO also invites you to share your story via its online form. Another option is to connect with a local news outlet and see if it can do a story about living with mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Hope: Here for Everyone Impacted by Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma Awareness Day 2024 will have a positive impact on countless individuals and families who have been affected by this devastating disease. Your effort can make a difference and help drive donations and awareness worldwide.
Mesothelioma Hope will be participating alongside you, with many of our team members joining the Miles for Meso race and sharing highlights on social media.
We are dedicated to supporting mesothelioma patients and their families by helping them find the community and resources they need.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, get our Free Mesothelioma Guide now to find information on treatments and financial compensation to cover expenses.
