An inquest has heard that the death of a joiner from the United Kingdom was caused by exposure to asbestos. The 59-year-old man from Lee Bank in the UK died earlier this year having suffered for many months, the inquest heard.
Edwin Whiteley had surgery to try and remove the affected lung, and although this extended his life by a few months it did not save him from the fatal effects of asbestos exposure. Evidence was given at the hearing by the man’s doctor, who added that the victim had shown enormous strength during his latter months.
"Mr. Whiteley was a very brave man who wanted to try anything to prolong his life and went ahead with massive surgery to get the cancer out. I'm sad to say that it is such a common story with this disease but most patients with it die. I have great admiration for him."
The coroner confirmed that industrial exposure was to blame for the man’s death, and he added: "He was a brave and courageous man and people should be pleased that there are people like him."