Man's Asbestos-Related Cancer Tied to Unlikely Workplace

READ MORE: My spouse was suffering from a cough and later discovered she had an uncommon and untreatable form of cancer.

A terminal cancer The patient is pursuing legal action against their previous employer. Barclays he thinks that being exposed to harmful minerals at the bank workplace led to his illness.

Mervyn Jessop, aged 72, suffers from stage four mesothelioma, a highly lethal type of lung cancer linked to contact with asbestos, a dangerous substance.

The dad dedicated 12 years of his career to operating computers for the major bank at a facility in Gloucester, where the company stored its data systems.

However, he believes that the asbestos used in constructing the specially built facility likely contained carcinogenic substances.

Now, about three decades since he ceased operating within the 'dusty' quarters, he has been informed that he only has a year left to live.

Research indicates that approximately 80 percent of mesothelioma cases stem from exposure to asbestos, often occurring at building sites.

Mr Jessop's battle with cancer commenced early in 2024, when he consulted his general practitioner regarding persistent worries that a lingering cough would not subside.

He underwent testing and received a diagnosis of mesothelioma in October.

"I had come across mesothelioma in the news, and I understood it to be an incurable disease," he stated.

I recall asking the physician about my remaining time and was informed that I had approximately one year left to live.

I was eager to delve into exploration and commence the treatment at the earliest opportunity to maximize my chances of spending as much time as possible with my loved ones.

Following his diagnosis, Mr Jessop has participated in a medical trial that combines chemotherapy with immunotherapy—an approach designed to boost the immune system’s ability to identify and combat cancer cells—with the aim of extending his lifespan.

According to research, only 10 percent of individuals who receive this diagnosis survive for over five years.

‘Currently, I become short of breath if I push myself too hard,’ explained Mr Jessop.

I am capable of managing walks on level terrain; nonetheless, I'm unable to perform strenuous chores at home and in the garden as I once did.

'I'm sorry, but I've recently stepped down from my golf club because I can no longer participate, finding myself out of breath when walking even slight slopes.'

When I gaze ahead, I become quite sorrowful. We had numerous aspirations for our golden years, and it feels as though they've all been snatched away.

'I am concerned about my future and also worried about what might happen to my wife Karen and our family.'

In 1973, Mr Jessop began his career at Barclays. He started out in London but relocated to Barnwood in 1978 following the opening of the Gloucester Data Centre.

The establishment, featuring three sections labelled A, B, and C, accommodated the company's growing computer network infrastructure.

He was stationed in Block A, reportedly featuring elevated flooring and drop ceilings.

According to Mr Jessop, substantial lengths of computer cables and ordinary wiring were routed through the floors and ceilings.

This could displace ceiling tiles and rubble situated behind the ceilings; he believes these areas contain asbestos. Consequently, this might cause dust to spread throughout.

When conducting repairs, engineers would remove tiles as well.

"Much of my time at work happened beyond regular office hours, which is when most of the computer maintenance took place," stated Mr Jessop.

'Then, computers were still in their early stages. They were massive, typically occupying whole rooms, covered in countless buttons, switches, and wires. Therefore, when maintenance or repairs were needed, it involved considerable effort from multiple individuals.'

The task typically involved entering spaces located above the dropped ceilings and beneath the flooring; these zones tended to be quite dusty. Therefore, meticulous attention was necessary during the cleanup process to maintain cleanliness and ensure they remained free of dust.

In 1990, Mr Jessop moved to the North West, settling in Wilmslow, Cheshire. He stepped down from his position at Barclays in 2004.

It is thought that the Gloucester Data Centre had a refurbishment in 2001 during which asbestos might have been taken out of the structure.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely utilized from the 1950s through the 1990s due to its low cost as an insulation material in the building of numerous new structures.

Breathing in its tiny fibers may lead to lung cancers (such as mesothelioma) along with asbestosis, which is a painful swelling and scarring of the lungs.

Around 2,400 deaths annually can be attributed to mesothelioma, as reported by Cancer Research UK.

The Health and Safety Executive suggests that approximately 1.3 million tradespeople face potential exposure, encountering asbestos an estimated hundred times annually on average.

Around 5,000 people in Britain succumb annually to cancer linked to asbestos due to occupational exposure, as stated by the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health.

The majority of diagnoses occur in individuals who are 75 years old or older, and men are typically more frequently impacted than women.

The symptoms of the illness develop gradually over an extended period and typically manifest several decades following exposure to asbestos.

Mr Jessop added: "While I understand that past events cannot be reversed, the minimum I believe I am owed is an explanation about how I came into contact with asbestos."

'I cannot express how important this would be for me and my family if individuals could step up and share what they know.'

He has now enlisted the help of specialized solicitors who focus on asbestos-linked diseases to look into whether his condition might be connected to his work history. He is also reaching out to former colleagues, urging them to step forward with any relevant details they may have.

The legal team is eager to speak with individuals who collaborated with Mervyn at the Gloucester Data Centre of Barclays Bank located in Barnwood, near Gloucester.

Helen Tomlin, the legal counsel who focuses on diseases caused by asbestos, representing Mervyn, stated: "The diagnosis for Mervyn serves as another stark reminder of the destructive effects of asbestos and how the consequences of exposure frequently manifest many years afterward."

Mervyn and his loved ones continue to be heartbroken over his diagnosis and the uncertainties it brings for their future. Although asbestos exposure is frequently linked to industrial settings, its usage was far more extensive than commonly thought.

If anybody who worked alongside Mervyn or possesses knowledge regarding the Gloucester Data Centre could step forward, this might be crucial in offering both Mervyn and his family the explanations they rightfully deserve.

Those who have any relevant details should reach out to Mr Jessop's legal representatives at Irwin Mitchell.