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September 5K Race to Benefit Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation

Vogelzang Law’s first annual Mesothelioma Race for Justice 5K kicks off on September 22 at the Lake County Forest Preserve Half Day in Vernon Hills. The race will benefit the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, the nation’s leading mesothelioma non-profit charity organization dedicated to funding mesothelioma research in the United States.

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive disease, which means that for many patients, a diagnosis creates countless questions. The only known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, and most exposure happens in the workplace, with employees in construction, carpentry, plumbing, insulation, and bricklaying among the most at-risk groups. These groups represent the majority of clients and families that Vogelzang Law represents; supporting families by advocating on their behalf and fighting for a cure is a mission close to the hearts of the Vogelzang Law team.

As the nation’s only 501(c)3 non-profit charity organization specifically dedicated to funding mesothelioma research and fighting for a cure, the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation — also known as the Meso Foundation — is leading the way. The organization serves as a powerful tool for patients and families seeking guidance and answers after a challenging diagnosis while also advocating for a nationwide increase in mesothelioma research.

The Meso Foundation’s research grant program has funded 106 studies supporting the development of new and better treatment methods. This knowledge is crucial; around 3,000 people are estimated to receive a mesothelioma diagnosis each year in the United States, but many know little about the illness before their own treatment process begins.

Through the Meso Foundation, families have access to educational tools and resources that guide them through the process of mesothelioma diagnosis and treatment. Patients can find details outlining everything from the definition and history of asbestos to explanations of the different types of mesothelioma. For such a little-known but aggressive disease, such information can make all the difference and empower families with knowledge about their own situation.

But the Meso Foundation’s impact extends far beyond just education; the group also advocates in Washington, DC to secure federal funding for national research. These efforts aid the study of mesothelioma’s causes and most effective treatment methods. Over $15 million in government funding has been directed to this research by the organization, which has also funded $10 million in mesothelioma research grants.

The race in September provides a unique opportunity for Vogelzang Law to collaborate with the Meso Foundation and give back to an organization which helps push for a cure. With the continued efforts of advocates across the country, a better future is possible for mesothelioma patients.

“With cases on the rise, as recently reported by the CDC,  providing patients and their families help when seeking treatment, and investing in research, continues to be crucial in our fight against mesothelioma,” said Mary Hesdorffer, NP, the executive director for the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation. “We are grateful to the Vogelzang firm for raising awareness and fundraising to help us achieve our mission.”

To register for the Mesothelioma Race for Justice 5K as a runner or a volunteer, visit mesotheliomaraceforjustice.com.

For more information about the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation, visit curemeso.org.