Christchurch Granddad Fights Asbestos-Related Cancer: A Community Call for Help
In the heart of Christchurch, a grandfather is bravely battling a rare form of cancer while also appealing for help from former colleagues who may remember him from his days working at Barclays’ New Milton branch. Michael Bishopp, 77, was diagnosed with mesothelioma in January of this year, a serious condition that affects the lining of the lungs and is often linked to exposure to asbestos, a material that’s unfortunately quite hazardous.
A Painful Discovery
Mr. Bishopp’s troubles began earlier this year, when he started experiencing several troubling symptoms, including persistent pain in his shoulder and increasingly frequent bouts of breathlessness. After a series of tests, the diagnosis was eventually confirmed: mesothelioma. “The last few months have been the worst of my life,” he recently shared. “I knew something was wrong, but you never imagine being told you have cancer. The shock was overwhelming and it was hard to take things in.”
Seeking Answers
Now, Mr. Bishopp is determined to find out more about his past and the possible cause of this dreadful illness. He recalls that during the early 1970s, while working at the bank on Station Road, there were significant renovations taking place, which involved a lot of “dust and debris.” He believes this environment might have exposed him to asbestos, possibly during the conversion of an upstairs accommodation into office space. Thinking back, he remembers builders cutting and drilling boards for ceiling reinforcement, which could have stirred up dangerous fibers into the air.
Focus on Family
With four children and three grandchildren, Mr. Bishopp is understandably dedicated to spending as much quality time as he can with his family during this challenging period. He currently visits Addenbrooke’s Hospital at least once every three weeks for scans and ongoing immunotherapy treatments. “I’m already on a trial that seems to be working, but I’m open to doing what I can to spend as much time as possible with my family and obtain the answers I deserve,” he noted resolutely.
Community Matters
The search for fellow employees comes at a poignant time, as Mr. Bishopp hopes that someone from his past might have information that could help him in his legal fight. He’s reached out to Irwin Mitchell solicitors, seeking assistance in piecing together his history at the bank. Natalia Rushworth-White, a lawyer with the firm, explained, “Mike and his family are understandably still shocked by his mesothelioma diagnosis and what this means for their future.”
A Call for Memories
“Mike is determined to uncover the truth about his asbestos exposure. He was employed by the bank for a long time and hopes that people will remember him,” Ms. Rushworth-White added. If anyone has recollections of working alongside Mr. Bishopp during those years or recalls any aspects of the renovations at Barclays in New Milton, he would greatly appreciate hearing from them. “This is proving to be such a difficult period in my life and I’d be so grateful for any information that people can provide,” he said sincerely.
How to Help
For anyone who may have information that could assist Mr. Bishopp in his battle, you can reach out directly to Natalia Rushworth-White at 01223 791893 or via email at natalia.rushworth-white@irwinmitchell.com. Your memories could provide valuable insights and maybe even aid in a quest for justice that this loving father and grandfather so richly deserves.
Conclusion
In times like these, the power of community can’t be underestimated. Whether it’s by sharing knowledge or simply offering support, every little bit counts. As Mr. Bishopp continues his journey, we all can do our part to help him find the closure and answers he seeks.
