A CLYDEBANK cancer patient has praised a group which helps people with an asbestos related disease for their “tremendous” support.

To mark Action Mesothelioma Day on July 2, Clydebank Asbestos Group (CAG) hosted a webinar aimed at raising awareness and understanding of the disease.

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer, usually linked to asbestos exposure, that develops in the lining that covers the outer surface of some of the body’s organs.

More than 2,600 people are diagnosed with the condition each year in the UK.

The event heard the story of Ina, from Clydebank, who has mesothelioma, and her granddaughter Phoenix, who cares for her.

Ina said: “When I found out I had cancer after I had been to the Golden Jubilee, they sent me to Gartnavel and I had 20 weeks of radiotherapy.

“I phoned up Clydebank Asbestos Group and spoke to Theresa. The support I got was tremendous.

“I got someone from occupational health to come in and they’ve put in rails to make it easier for me to get into the shower or the bath.

“I didn’t realise you could get a lawyer, which you don’t have to pay for, to help fight your case.

“I wouldn’t have got anywhere if I didn’t have that support.”

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Phoenix said she noticed a “big difference” in her gran after she sought help from CAG.

She said: “I had help filling in an application for a Young Carers Grant.

“We wouldn’t have known about it otherwise if we hadn’t got in touch with the group.

“Before we contacted the group, my gran would be quite isolated if she had any issues or needed any help. She wouldn’t have known how to deal with things.

“There’s only so much I can do. After she was in contact with CAG she had someone to get help and advice from and they were always happy to assist.

“I’ve seen such a big difference in her. She was a lot more positive after she got help, whereas before she felt a bit hopeless. It shows you are not alone.

“The support has taken a weight off of my shoulders because I know she has someone to go to who knows what they are talking about.”

Theresa Jones, charity coordinator for CAG, added: “Ina and Phoenix have both been personally affected by this dreadful disease. We applaud their resilience and we are inspired by their desire to give back.

“The people who deserve the most thanks are our mesothelioma patients. Thank you for trusting us to help you during your mesothelioma journey.

“Nobody should have to face cancer alone.”