Margaret Lee has developed mesothelioma – a cancer related to asbestos exposure.
Mrs Margaret Lee – known as Peggie – worked at Newcastle General Hospital between 1967 and 1971 under her maiden name Iveson.(Image: Handout)
A former Newcastle General Hospital nurse believes she may have been exposed to asbestos in her time working on the Westgate Road. Margaret Lee – sometimes known as Peggie – worked at the hospital between 1967 and 1971 under her maiden name, Iveson.
The woman, who now lives in North Wales but is from Durham, was given a devastating mesothelioma diagnosis last December. The cancer has no cure and is connected with asbestos exposure.
Mrs Lee has now instructed solicitors from the firm Hugh James to pursue a legal claim. The firm is looking to speak with anyone who may have worked with Mrs Lee at that time, or who may have knowledge of “working conditions, the underground tunnels and / or potential asbestos exposure during Mrs Lee’s employment”.
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The firm has explained how Mrs Lee recalls living in the nurses’ housing opposite the hospital and passing through an underground tunnel where she recalls asbestos was discovered on her way to work.
Emma Newman, asbestos claims lawyer at Hugh James said: “We are hoping to help Mrs Lee by locating others who worked at the old Newcastle General Hospital, Westgate Road during the same period.
“If you worked with Mrs Lee (Margaret ‘Peggie’ Iveson) at any point during her career at old Newcastle General Hospital or have any information relating to asbestos exposure there, Mrs Lee and her family would greatly appreciate your assistance. Even small details could prove crucial in understanding how she was exposed and in holding those responsible to account.”
The Department of Health and Social Care has been approached for comment. Emma Newman at Hugh James can be contacted by calling 0161 388 6487 or emailing Emma.Newman@hughjames.com.
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