Beginning in the 1970s, Cooney & Conway was one of only a few law firms in the country representing plaintiffs in actions against companies responsible for causing their mesothelioma. From our office in Chicago, Cooney & Conway has successfully represented thousands of individuals across the United States that have been diagnosed with mesothelioma and, as a result, have developed an unmatched expertise in the area of asbestos litigation. All of the asbestos attorneys at Cooney & Conway are considered leaders in the field.
We understand that everyone is in a different place in their mesothelioma journey, so we've made it easy for you to access the information you're looking for using the links below.
Possible Asbestos Exposure Sites in Chicago
Although asbestos is now regulated in the United States, it wasn't always, and it still isn't banned. For decades, millions of workers in occupational situations were inhaling asbestos fibers day after day, year after year, which had the potential to kill them with no idea of the dangers. Those working with insulation and piping materials were most at risk, but its use was pervasive and its dangers eventually became apparent. Take a look at the top five industries at risk of asbestos exposure.
There are many different types of job sites that have been identified as possibly containing or having contained asbestos in the Chicago area. If you've been to any of these types of job sites and have any symptoms related to mesothelioma or asbestos exposure, we recommend you see a doctor right away. We'll be here when you need legal representation from an asbestos lawyer to get the justice that you deserve.
Chicago area sites with possible or reported asbestos over the years include***:
- Chicago public schools
- Oil refineries
- Power Generation Plants
- Johns Manville Plant
- Steel Mills
- Factories
- Foundries
- Water Treatment Plants
- Shipyards
- Auto Mechanic Garages
***Please note that this list isn't comprehensive and doesn't necessarily reflect the current conditions of these sites.
Mesothelioma Treatment Options
When you receive a cancer diagnosis, you won't only be dealing with one doctor. There is a multidisciplinary cancer care team that works to create your overall treatment plan, including physician assistants, oncology nurses, pharmacists, dieticians, counselors, and so on. An important part of mesothelioma care is not just keeping the cancer under control, but making sure that all symptoms and side effects are minimized.
Mesothelioma does not have a cure, per se, but there are many treatments that can be done to help minimize its effects on your life. It's important to discuss all of your treatment options with your doctor so that you can decide together which will fit your needs.
Surgery
Surgery can be a treatment option for mesothelioma patients. This includes the removal of cancerous tissue, which may sometimes include the removal of lining of the lung, the entire lung, the lining of abdominal organs, a portion of the diaphragm or a portion of the lining around the heart. This is a difficult surgery and the doctor will usually decide if this is a good option and will typically recommend chemotherapy or radiation therapy before or after surgery.
Medication Therapies
The use of medication to destroy cancer cells is called systemic therapy. It is given through the bloodstream via intravenous (IV) tubes or in pill form (swallowed orally) to ensure it reaches all cancer cells throughout the body. Types of systemic therapy that can be used in mesothelioma treatment include chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. They can be used one at a time or in combination with each other. They can also be used in a treatment plan that includes surgery and/or radiation therapy.
Radiation Therapy
The use of high-energy x-rays or other particles to destroy cancer cells is called radiation therapy. The most common type is called external-beam radiation and radiation are given using a machine outside the body. Typically, radiation therapy has a schedule of a specific number of treatments over a period of time. This therapy is not as common with mesothelioma patients because it has been known to cause some uncomfortable or severe side effects.
Coping with Mesothelioma Treatment
Mesothelioma treatments can be very difficult. Not only are the physical symptoms and side effects difficult to experience, but there are emotional, social, and financial effects as a result of mesothelioma treatment. Taking care of and managing all of these aspects is known as palliative care or supportive care. It's typically the type of care you receive alongside your medical care. It's highly recommended for all mesothelioma patients and has been known to lessen severe symptoms, improve quality of life, and help patients be more satisfied with their treatment experience. This kind of care can include:
- Medication
- Relaxation techniques
- Nutritional changes
- Emotional support
- And spiritual support
Palliative care is something you'll want to discuss with your doctor.
How to Pursue a Legal Case for Mesothelioma
For decades, we have built strong cases to pursue damages on behalf of our clients who have received diagnosis and treatment for asbestos-related cancers. Typically, this has included compensation for any expenses or losses incurred from exposure to asbestos, including diagnosis, treatments, lost wages, and any related costs.
The cost of getting the proper treatment for mesothelioma or lung cancer is often quite expensive, and the attorneys at Cooney & Conway work hard to deliver the highest financial reward to our clients. The amount of compensation that mesothelioma victims and families can be awarded varies greatly and is dependent on each individual case.
Any person who is a victim of asbestos exposure and is seeking to file a lawsuit should immediately consult with an attorney to determine specific statutes of limitations that may apply to them. Most lawsuits require time for investigation and preparation, which must also be considered. The sooner that action is taken, the better.
