Here are some kind words that our members and their families have had to say about our charity and our work over the years.

“When my wife was diagnosed with mesothelioma at Arrowe park hospital neither of us knew then how difficult the next couple of years would be but as we left the consultation room we were handed a leaflet for the Merseyside Asbestos Victim Support Group. After a few weeks my wife decided to contact the group and she was visited at home by John Flannagan, who went through what the support group could do to help us. I was unsure at first as I arrived part way through the meeting and there seemed to be a lot of form filling going on. I did however notice he was very patient answering our questions and explained things in a way that were easy to understand.

Dealing with the many hospital appointments and treatment days was all we could cope with and after a short period of time we were relieved to receive the DWP benefit payments that MAVS had helped set up. By this stage we had also attended a meeting of the support group in Liverpool. It was nice to meet other people who were going through the same situation and share our experiences. The support group was a comfortable informal setting but also had specialist nurses on hand to advise on treatments and symptoms.

We learned a lot about asbestos and about Mesothelioma and how it’s a very difficult cancer to treat but the atmosphere at the support group meetings was always positive and the office staff and nurses were always available to chat to or message anytime. Also through the group we were put in touch with a solicitor who has since helped with a successful claim for compensation.

Sadly, my wife passed away but I would encourage anyone with a diagnosis relating to asbestos to contact MAVS they have a lot of experience and are sympathetic to your needs all the way through the process. I have gained long lasting friendships through my involvement with MAVS.”

John

 

“In March 2013 out of the blue my husband was diagnosed with Mesothelioma. My husband, myself and our family were absolutely devastated and didn’t know which way to turn. We were told about MAVS and they were a godsend.

All the staff, volunteers and trustees were a great help. Every question that we had was answered for us and nothing was too much trouble. It was a great relief for us. We were steered in the right direction at a time when we just didn’t know what to do. All matters, paperwork etc; of which there was a lot for the DWP, were dealt with swiftly and efficiently by MAVS. John, Helen and the volunteers do an amazing job and have helped so many.”

Yvonne

 

“Nothing prepares you for a Mesothelioma diagnosis. It is a time of shock, confusion, and information overload. MAVS where invaluable during this difficult time. They were a source of much needed reassurance through their support meetings, and provided helpful guidance on the benefit application and legal claims processes.”

Martin

 

“The team were a tremendous support when my father was diagnosed with mesothelioma. They helped me and my family to complete the endless forms and applications which under the circumstances at times seemed to be overwhelming and complicated. There has been ongoing support and feel I have found a life long friend in John Flanagan.”

Yvonne Cairns (daughter of Kevin Tighe)