In the UK, one community has rallied around a neighbor who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma.  Stuart Smith, age 64, believes he contracted the disease when sweeping asbestos-laden buildings belonging to the air force.   To honor Stuart, local businessmen and craftspeople donated goods for an auction to benefit charities of Stuart's choice.

In just one day, the town raised over £2,600 for the June Hancock Mesothelioma Research Fund and Macmillan Cancer nurses.  The kindness of his neighbors meant much to Stuart, who said, "I'm overwhelmed that people wanted to hold this auction for me. I feel quite emotional, to be honest. I cannot believe that people can be so generous. Some of the people who have arranged it, I have only briefly met.  It seems a lot of people around here have empathy for my problems."

Stuart's wife Wendy, age 65, echoed his sentiments: "We have lived in Horsford 11 years and I would not now move even if we won the Lottery.”

In reaching out to Stuart, the community not only affected his life, but also the lives of other mesothelioma patients.  A single event raised nearly £3,000 towards finding a cure and assisting those currently suffering from the disease.  The support Stuart encountered has armed him with the strength he needs to face the cancer: “My attitude is that I have got to be positive, and make the most of my life,” he said.

For more on Stuart, click here.