Mesothelioma Research Group Appoints New Director

The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation is a non-profit organization that has been dedicated to the cure of mesothelioma since 1999. Following the announced retirement  of their longtime Patient Services Director, Mary Hesdorffer, the organization conducted a nationwide search for an expert with the qualifications needed to assume the role. Yesterday the foundation’s Executive Director, Julie Powers revealed that they have hired Shannon Sinclair, RN, BSN, OCN, to take her place.

Oncology Nurse to Assume Role at Mesothelioma Organization 

Ms. Sinclair comes to the respected mesothelioma organization with impressive credentials, including work at a state-of-the-art oncology center, working for a major pharmaceutical company as an oncology clinical nurse educator, and having worked to advise medical professionals and to support patients for a specialty oncology pharmacy. In addition to being an Oncology Certified Nurse she has credentials in chemotherapy, biotherapy, and immunotherapy – all protocols that are widely used in the treatment of patients diagnosed with the rare, asbestos-related disease.

The role of Patient Services Director for the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation is an important one. Ms. Sinclair will be working directly with patients and their loved ones after they are diagnosed, helping them to understand what lies ahead and to access treatment.  Mary Hesdorffer initially announced her retirement a few years ago and then committed to an additional three years as both Executive Director and Medical Director. The organization recently introduced Julie Powers as its new Executive Director, and now has hired Ms. Sinclair to assume the patient-forward role.

Mesothelioma Organization Provides Support and Funding 

For over twenty years, the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation has been funding research projects in the United States and abroad, raising awareness of asbestos-related diseases, and supporting patients and their families through education and access to treatment, and by providing emotional support and assistance. 

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma or any other asbestos-related disease, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net can answer your questions and guide you to invaluable resources. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608.

Written by Terri Oppenheimer

Terri Heimann Oppenheimer is the head writer of our Mesothelioma.net news blog. She graduated from the College of William and Mary with a degree in English. Terri believes that knowledge is power and she is committed to sharing news about the impact of mesothelioma, the latest research and medical breakthroughs, and victims’ stories.

Learn more about and contact Terri