It happened at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts. Karen Grant was diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma tumor on both sides of the lungs at the young age of 29. But even after six years, she is fighting fit owing to the aggressive treatment plan administered by her mesothelioma doctor, David Sugarbaker.
Karen’s original prognosis was a survival period of only six months, but she opted to fight the deadly disease. Dr. Sugarbaker performed two surgeries and administered laser therapy and chemotherapy, along with rehabilitation. The grueling treatment plan has taken a toll on Karen, but because of it, she is a survivor today.
The case offers hope to all those who are diagnosed with Mesothelioma. Till date, it was assumed that only those detected with the condition at an early stage had a chance of survival; but Karen has proved otherwise.
Asbestos causes mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer, and asbestos found very wide application in the 100 or so years before the deadly side effects were confirmed in 1970s. The toxic mineral is still not banned in the United States though it is under strict regulation. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) attempted to enforce a ban in 1989, but the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals did not acquiesce.