ADAO Co-Founder Douglas Larkin Statement on the Passing of ADAO President Alan Reinstein

WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 23, 2006--

Organization Committed to Fighting Asbestos Disease and Serving as Voice of the Victims Expresses Deep Sorrow and Reaffirms Commitment to Educate the Public on the Dangers of Asbestos

The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO), an organization dedicated to serving as the voice of asbestos victims, today issued this statement on behalf of its Co-Founder, Douglas Larkin, in response to the passing of ADAO President Alan Reinstein.

"It is with great sorrow and regret that ADAO announces the loss of its beloved President, Alan Reinstein, who passed away on May 22 after a long and courageous battle against mesothelioma, an asbestos related disease. Husband of ADAO Co-Founder and Executive Director, Linda Reinstein, Alan was a selfless leader and monumental voice for asbestos victims. With dignity and compassion, Alan gave enormous strength to those jointly suffering from the effects of asbestos disease, and spoke extensively about the need for prevention, education and research to help create a future where asbestos no longer needlessly takes lives.

"The organization and its supporters extend their heartfelt sympathy to his wife Linda, and his beloved children and grandchildren including son Jeffrey Reinstein and daughters Elizabeth Reinstein-Plummer, Emily Reinstein and granddaughters Isabel Plummer and Ezme Plummer. In addition, ADAO shares its sorrow with the countless other friends, family members and colleagues who were touched by Alan's incredible life.

"In the U.S. alone, roughly 10,000 people die each year from cancer caused by asbestos and it is responsible for one of out every 125 deaths of men over the age of 50. ADAO's work is more important than ever and despite our great loss, our growing network of committed and passionate volunteers will continue our critical efforts to help stop the deadly effects of asbestos. We remember and honor Alan today, and are enormously grateful for the tremendous legacy he has left us all."

About Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization

Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) was founded by asbestos victims and their families. ADAO seeks to give asbestos victims a united voice to help ensure that their rights are fairly represented and protected, and raise public awareness about the dangers of asbestos exposure and the incurable and often deadly asbestos related diseases. ADAO is funded through voluntary contributions and staffed by volunteers. For more information visit www.asbestosdiseaseawareness.org.