In honor of National Mesothelioma Awareness Day, Motley Rice LLC will host a special event featuring the “Big John” Fire Truck, a restored symbol of firefighter health advocacy and asbestos awareness.
This year marks a milestone: The state South Carolina has officially proclaimed September 26 as Mesothelioma Awareness Day (see image below) for the first time, joining the Cities of Charleston and North Charleston in recognizing the lives impacted by asbestos-related diseases and the importance of prevention and justice.
Charleston Mayor William Cogswell, Motley Rice attorneys Andrew Patterson and Shalom Jacks (Credit: Motley Rice Law Firm
Event Details:
- Date: Friday, September 26, 2025
- Time: 1:00 – 2:00 PM (Group photo at 1:30 PM)
- Location: Front circle of Motley Rice, 28 Bridgeside Blvd, Mt. Pleasant, SC
- Bonus: Afternoon snacks provided
About “Big John”:
The truck honors Battalion Chief John E. Winn, Sr., a Charleston firefighter and Motley Rice client who championed cancer screenings and firefighter health before passing from mesothelioma. Restored by the Lowcountry Firefighter Support Team, “Big John” now travels the state promoting awareness and community care.
Why It Matters:
More than 40,000 North American workers die from asbestos-related diseases every year.
Charleston’s shipyard and military history means many locals—veterans, tradespeople, and first responders—were unknowingly exposed to asbestos. This day honors their legacy and calls attention to ongoing risks.
We also remember those exposed at Ground Zero, and others affected:
- Plant workers
- Teachers
- Construction laborers
- Family members exposed at home
- Consumers exposed through everyday products
Asbestos is still legal in the U.S., and new cases of mesothelioma continue to emerge—often decades after exposure. Awareness and prevention remain critical.