Yahoo News Former Newcastle chef's appeal after diagnosis of cancer linked to asbestos exposure
A former chef who has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer linked to asbestos exposure has appealed for anyone who may have worked alongside him to come forward.
David Robinson, 60, received a mesothelioma diagnosis after suffering from breathlessness and a persistent cough. He has been forced to take extended periods of time off work to undergo immunotherapy treatment following a biopsy procedure to confirm he had the condition, which is linked to asbestos exposure.
Following his diagnosis, Mr Robinson instructed solicitors to investigate his work history to determine when and where he was exposed to asbestos in the hope of bringing a compensation claim that reflects his loss of earnings.
He is also hoping to secure funds that will allow him to pay for any future treatment he may need, which is not available on the NHS. His legal team is now appealing for witnesses who worked with him throughout his career as a chef across the North East, and who may be able to provide information about the presence of asbestos in any of his workplaces.
Mr Robinson worked at Northern Rock House, based at Regent Centre in Gosforth, between 1991 and 1998 while large-scale refurbishment works were taking place. He was employed by Compass Group at this time, and recalls that he was responsible for servicing the vending machines on every floor, including within some departments, spending approximately 10 - 15 minutes on each machine.
He remembers a particularly dusty atmosphere, with dust visible on the carpets and ceiling tiles removed and stacked on the floor, some of which were broken. He also remembers that the tradesmen wore facemasks and safety glasses.
Mr Robinson says that his illness has come as a "massive shock" to realise the effect that it would have on his physical fitness, which has deteriorated.
Joseph Dowey from Thompsons Solicitors, who are representing Mr Robinson, said: "It is always very difficult for a person to be diagnosed with such a terrible illness, but it is especially hard to come to terms with when they don’t work in industries typically associated with mesothelioma and asbestos.
"In Mr Robinson’s case, we are hoping to secure funds that reflect his loss of earnings and provide him with some financial security for the future. We are now in the process of determining when and where he may have been exposed to asbestos and would like to hear from anyone who worked alongside him at any point during his career to reach out with information."
Anyone with information can contact Joseph Dowey at Thompsons Solicitors on 0191 2690457 or via email at josephdowey@thompsons.law. Compass Group UK declined to comment.
