Firefighter contines to battle with mesothelioma cancer, returns to work

A Beaumont, Texas fire fighter has returned to his job after battling mesothelioma for the last fourteen months. David Chesser’s battle, however, is yet to be over as he continues to struggle through his asbestos-related disease.

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer which typically affects the linings of the lung, heart and abdominal cavities. Unfortunately, firefighters are often exposed to airborne asbestos particles while at work.

David Chesser is a dedicated firefighter, who loves what he does. Chesser has fought fires and answered other emergency calls for 36 years.

Chesser recalled his most favored memory of working as a firefighter: “I made a run on a sick person she was in her 20’s. I can’t even tell you her name but she reminds me of, probably of an angel. She was so sick she had a brain tumor, but she smiled. She knew she may never come home and that made an impact on my life.”

When it was discovered Chesser had contracted mesothelioma, he was dedicated to fight the disease, and return to his job. Sadly, mesothelioma treatment options like chemotherapy and surgery are only palliative efforts, as there is no cute for this cancer.

While ill, Chesser had been promoted to district fire chief, however, he was not able to make the ceremony. Instead, his wife stood in honor of an ill Chesser.

While ill, Chesser and his family went to Nebraska–where mesothelioma doctors treated the firefighter. After 14 months, he has returned home and to his beloved job. Chesser noted: "I wanted to be back with these guys. I didn’t want the cancer to make me quit my job.”