Diagnosed with mesothelioma last year, Theresa Guilbeau will have her day in Madison County Circuit Court Nov. 1 for trial before Judge Daniel Stack against a long list of defendants.
Guilbeau, who filed an eight count suit Oct. 6, 2003, is seeking at least $400,000, plus punitive damages "in an amount sufficient to punish defendants for alleged willful, wanton, intentional and reckless misconduct."
Guilbeau's husband, Arnie, was employed from 1949 to 1981 as a laborer, pipe fitter, boilermaker, and mechanic at various locations, and many times worked with or around asbestos. Guilbeau claims that her husband carried dust containing asbestos fibers in his clothes that would become airborne again at home. She was diagnosed with the deadly disease in April 2003.
Guilbeau also claims that during non-occupational work projects like home repairs, car repairs, and home remodeling she was exposed to and inhaled, ingested or otherwise absorbed large amounts of asbestos fibers emanating from certain products which were manufactured or sold by a long list of 107 defendants.
Though most of the 107 defendants have already been dismissed from the case, there are many ready for trial. Companies such as Conoco, Dow Chemical, Ford, Olin and Honeywell remain on the case as defendants.
Defendants are accused of including asbestos in their products even though it was completely foreseeable and could have or should have been anticipated that persons such as Arnie working with or around them would inhale, ingest or absorb great amounts of asbestos.
Guilbeau is represented by the East Alton SimmonsCooper lawfirm.
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