James Hardie Settle Mesothelioma Case Out Of Court -- MesoLink.org -- 08-02-04

A former Australian builder, aged 63, has spoken of his nerve-racking ordeal with products manufacturers, James Hardie Industries.

Stewart Beckworth from Mornington Peninsula, who discovered that he had mesothelioma early this year, stated that he contacted James Hardie Industries to discuss the topic of compensation after using James Hardie products for years. However, the company seemed unwilling to discuss the matter, and kept Mr Beckworth waiting for neatly two weeks before sending him a letter telling him to go to a solicitor.

Mr Beckworth was shocked at the firm’s attitude and rudeness, and was concerned about both the medical bills coming in and the future financial security of his family. The onset of mesothelioma symptoms meant that he was unable to work any longer, making it impossible for him to earn money.

The Asbestos Diseases Society of Victoria helped Mr Beckworth to file a suit against James Hardie Industries. However, a couple of days before the case was due to be heard at the Supreme Court a settlement figure was offered by the firm.

In the meantime, Mr Beckworth is continuing to get treatment and is also entering into clinical trials in the hope that the cancer will go in to remission. As it was caught relatively early, he was able to benefit from surgery, and although he is aware that there is no cure for mesothelioma, he hopes that with continued treatments and clinical trials the symptoms can be alleviated and the cancer can be kept at bay.