Support Groups
Connecting with others who understand your experience can provide invaluable emotional support:
Patient Support Groups
- In-person groups at cancer centers and hospitals
- Online communities for 24/7 connection
- Telephone support groups for those unable to travel
- Private Facebook groups moderated by professionals
Caregiver Support
Caregivers face unique challenges and need their own support:
- Caregiver-specific support groups
- Respite care resources
- Counseling services
- Educational workshops
Major Organizations
Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation (MARF)
Leading nonprofit dedicated to mesothelioma research, education, and support. Offers patient navigation, support groups, and funding for research.
Website: curemeso.org
Phone: 877-363-6376
Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO)
Global advocacy organization focused on preventing asbestos exposure and supporting those affected. Organizes annual conference.
Website: asbestosdiseaseawareness.org
American Cancer Society
Comprehensive cancer support including transportation, lodging, and 24/7 helpline. Not mesothelioma-specific but extensive resources.
Phone: 1-800-227-2345
CancerCare
Free professional support services including counseling, support groups, and educational workshops.
Website: cancercare.org
Phone: 800-813-HOPE
Financial Assistance Programs
Travel and treatment costs can be overwhelming. These programs can help:
Treatment and Travel Assistance
- MARF Travel Grant Program - Helps patients travel to specialty centers
- American Cancer Society Hope Lodge - Free lodging during treatment
- Corporate Angel Network - Free flights on corporate jets for cancer patients
- LifeLine Pilots / Angel Flight - Volunteer pilot organizations
General Financial Help
- Patient Advocate Foundation - Case management and financial aid
- HealthWell Foundation - Copay and premium assistance
- Pan Foundation - Medication cost assistance
- Good Days - Chronic disease assistance
Veterans Resources
Special resources for veterans exposed during military service:
- VA Healthcare - Free treatment at VA medical centers
- VA Disability Compensation - Tax-free monthly payments
- Veterans Service Organizations - Free claim assistance
- Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA) - Agent Orange and asbestos exposure support
Educational Resources
Understanding Your Diagnosis
- What is Mesothelioma? - Comprehensive overview
- Types of Mesothelioma - Pleural, peritoneal, pericardial
- Understanding Stages - What stage means for treatment
- Treatment Options - Surgery, chemo, immunotherapy
Living with Mesothelioma
- Day-to-Day Tips - Managing daily life
- Nutrition Guide - Eating well during treatment
- Palliative Care - Symptom management and quality of life
- Meditation & Mindfulness - Mental wellness during treatment
- Physical Therapy - Maintaining strength and mobility
Legal and Financial Planning
- Legal Compensation Options - Lawsuits and trust funds
- Lawsuit Process - What to expect
- Trust Fund Claims - Compensation from bankrupt companies
Clinical Trials
Access cutting-edge treatments:
- Clinical Trials Guide - How trials work
- Finding Trials - Step-by-step search guide
- ClinicalTrials.gov - Database of all registered trials
End-of-Life Resources
For patients and families facing advanced disease:
- Hospice care - Comfort-focused care at home or facility
- Advance care planning - Documenting wishes
- Grief support - Counseling for families
- Support for Children - Resources for families with young members
- Legacy projects - Recording memories and stories
Online Communities
Connect with others 24/7:
- Reddit r/Mesothelioma - Patient and caregiver community
- Inspire.com - Health-specific social network
- Smart Patients - Clinical trial and treatment discussions
- MARF Community Forum - Moderated support board
How to Get Started
If you're newly diagnosed:
- Connect with a specialist - Find a mesothelioma doctor
- Join a support group - You don't have to face this alone
- Learn about treatment options - Knowledge reduces fear
- Explore financial assistance - Programs can help with costs
- Consider legal options - You may be entitled to compensation