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 the devastation it can cause to the people diagnosed and their families.

By participating in this year’s event, you can honor everyone affected by mesothelioma and show your support.

Showing Support on Mesothelioma Awareness Day 2023

There are many ways you can participate in Mesothelioma Awareness Day 2023, from connecting with loved ones in person to participating in online fundraisers. Keep reading to learn more about how you can make an impact this year.

Attend 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:

  • John Slagle Memorial Golf Tournament: Named after a mesothelioma patient who passed away in 2012, this golf tournament is taking place at the Kilkarney Hills Golf Course located in River Falls, Wisconsin, on Saturday, September 23.
  • Light the World Blue: Since 2020, oncology company Novocure has called on landmarks across the nation 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 15th 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 to take place this year can be found on the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation website. You can also launch your own fundraiser for trusted mesothelioma research organizations.

Help Mesothelioma Organizations

Notable groups like the Meso Foundation and the ADAO are celebrating 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, Twitter, and Instagram
  • Making an online donation (both the Meso Foundation and ADAO accept donations)
  • Spreading the word about these organizations and their mission

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.

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.

This 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 the need for a ban on social media so even more people can urge their political leaders to take action.

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 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 2023 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 around the world.

Mesothelioma Hope will be participating right alongside you, with many of our team members joining the Mile 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 treatment and financial assistance.

Asbestos Guide
Download Asbestos Products GuideFree 2024 Asbestos Guide
  • Asbestos safety information
  • Products containing asbestos
  • Common exposure risks

Get Your Free Guide

Laura WrightWritten by:

Lead Editor

Laura Wright is a journalist and content strategist with more than 15 years of professional experience. She attended college at the University of Florida, graduating magna cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in journalism in 2008. Her writing has been featured in The Gainesville Sun and other regional publications throughout Florida.

Our Promise to You
Our Promise to You
References
  1. Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation. “Mesothelioma Awareness Day.” Retrieved September 21, 2023, from https://www.curemeso.org/get-involved/get-involved-events/mesothelioma-awareness-day/.
  2. Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation. “Light the World Blue for Mesothelioma Awareness.” Retrieved September 21, 2023, from https://www.curemeso.org/get-involved/get-involved-events/mesothelioma-awareness-day/light-the-world-blue-for-mesothelioma-awareness/.
  3. Simmons Hanly Conroy. “Registration Opens for 15th Annual Alton Miles for Meso 5K Race & 3K Fun Run/Walk.” Retrieved September 21, 2023, from https://www.simmonsfirm.com/news/item/miles-for-meso-registration-2023/.

Get Your Free 2024 Mesothelioma Guide

  • Symptoms & staging
  • Average prognosis
  • Life-extending treatments
Get Your Free Guide Now
Mesothelioma guide