A California couple has filed an asbestos lawsuit against 55 companies, claiming that the mesothelioma the man was diagnosed with was wrongfully caused. Arvid and May Johnson claim Arvid was diagnosed with the disease on Sept. 15, 2008.

The lawsuit claims that while Arvid worked for various companies, including the U.S. Navy, Ace Hardware and various filling stations between the years 1947-2004, he was exposed to and inhaled dangerous asbestos fibers. Moreover, the suit claims that Johnson’s exposure was foreseeable and should have been anticipated by the defendants.

Due to the asbestos exposure, the Johnson’s claim that Arvid has become disabled and disfigured, which required him to spend large amounts of money for medical, hospital, and other health services necessary to treat the disease. As a result of his mesothelioma, Arvid is experiencing great physical pain and mental agony. Furthermore, the disease hinders and prevents Arvid from pursuing employment and as a result he lost large sums of money. Lastly, May claims that she has been deprived of the support, devotion, and care of Arvid.

The couple is seeking sums in excess of $50,000, punitive and exemplary damages in excess of $100,000 and compensatory damages in excess of $50,000.