Terry Gallagher was diagnosed with mesothelioma
The family of a man who died from an aggressive form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos is appealing for his former work colleagues to come forward with information about his working conditions.
82 year old Terry Gallagher emigrated to Canada with his second wife Marilyn in 1987. He was diagnosed with mesothelioma, an incurable cancer which affects the lining of the lungs in June 2010.
Mr Gallagher, originally from Hove, Sussex, struggled to come to terms with his diagnosis leaving Terry’s widow with little detail of how he was exposed to the deadly dust.
His family instructed Thompsons Solicitors to investigate a claim for compensation
After Terry’s death in May 2012 his family instructed Thompsons Solicitors to investigate a claim for compensation.
His family are appealing for information about four of Terry’s former employers.
Croydon-based Motherwell Bridge and Engineering Co Ltd
Mr Gallagher worked for Croydon-based Motherwell Bridge and Engineering Co Ltd as a construction and commissioning engineer on turnkey projects between 1966 and 1985, predominantly operating large refuse burning incinerators. He worked away from home during this time, often in the Doncaster, Sheffield and Manchester areas.
Babcock and Wilcox Ltd, John Thompson Industrial Constructions Ltd and Matthew Hall
It is believed that Terrence was also exposed to asbestos dust while working as an engineer between 1961 and 1966, for Babcock and Wilcox Ltd, John Thompson Industrial Constructions Ltd and for the thermal insulation engineer firm, Matthew Hall.
Mr Gallaghers’ widow, Marilyn said: “After the diagnosis Terry wouldn’t talk about his cancer or his exposure to asbestos, he just shut himself away. We were completely shocked - we had never even heard of mesothelioma.
“We’re hoping that people who worked with Terry might have information about the use of asbestos where he worked. If you can help, please get in touch.”
Exposed to asbestos at more than one of his previous employers
Neil Baines from Thompsons Solicitors added: “It is highly likely that Terry would have been exposed to asbestos at more than one of his previous employers before he emigrated to Canada. It is vital that we speak to his former colleagues to put together a picture of Mr Gallagher’s working life.
“We would urge anyone who worked with Terrence in Croydon, Doncaster, Sheffield or Manchester to contact us with information which could help.”
Anyone who can help can contact Neil Baines on 0800 0 224 224 or by email on: enquiries@thompsons.law.co.uk.
Asbestos disease diagnosis? Talk to us for advice and support on how to secure compensation.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, we can support you with advice on how to make a claim.
The process will be explained in plain English and with no obligation – our priority is to provide you with the best, expert advice on whether you have a valid case for compensation, and to signpost you to further sources of support.
There are strict time limits applied to making a claim – usually three years from the date of diagnosis. It doesn’t matter if the exposure to asbestos took place – as it often does – decades ago, the three year time limit applies to the date of knowledge of diagnosis or date of death.
For further information, visit our How to Make A Compensation Claim page.