Former Union Carbide worker, wife, file asbestos mesothelioma lawsuit

A Poca, West Virginia couple has named 48 defendants in an asbestos-related case.

Shirley Guy Chancey was diagnosed with lung cancer on August 19, 2009, and filed a complaint in Kanawha Circuit Court on May 14.

Chancey was employed by Union Carbide Corporation as an insulator for 32 years–from 1959 until 1991.

The couple claims Chancey developed lung cancer due to his asbestos exposure. The couple has noted, however, that Chancey smoked on and off from 1952 until 2009, but has since then quit.

Asbestos is a fibrous material most commonly exploited for its fire retardant properties. The toxic material can be found in many older buildings, specifically, tile flooring, drywall and roofing.

When asbestos is disturbed, hazardous particles become airborne–posing a serious health risk to those in the surrounding area. For individuals such as Chancey, extended exposure to the material can lead to several asbestos related diseases, such as lung cancer.

Mesothelioma is the most rare and aggressive form of cancer to arise from asbestos exposure, and affects the mesothelium. Without a mesothelioma cure, patients are left with little hope for survival. Unfortunately, due to the disease’s long latency period and the fact that there is no cure, mesothelioma treatment efforts are simply palliative.

The couple is suing the defendants for negligence, contaminated buildings, intentional tort, conspiracy, strict liability, misrepresentation and breach of expressed warranty. Shirley Guy Chancey, and his wife, Louise Dale Chancey, are seeking a jury trial for the case.