ADSSA - Supporting asbestos-related disease sufferers, friends and their families

ADSSA is a community-based, registered charitable organisation providing information, education, advocacy, awareness and support to those in contact with asbestos in the environment, home or workplace and support to those suffering from an asbestos-related disease

Tribute to Kaylene Tidswell

On 20 September 2019, Kaylene (Kay) Tidswell passed away aged 69.

Kay was instrumental in the setting up of ADSSA in 2005 and was its CEO until her resignation in late 2009. During her 4 years at the helm, Kay oversaw ADSSA’s growth from a small organisation providing limited assistance, to the professional organisation it is today. Kay spent a great deal of time speaking with those suffering asbestos conditions, along with the partners of the victims. She was a regular contributor to the SA Unions Asbestos Coalition. She also actively campaigned for victims and also to members of the public alerting them about the dangers of asbestos. Kay had first-hand knowledge of the devastating impact asbestos conditions had on people, losing her partner Russ to mesothelioma shortly prior to her appointment as CEO. This gave her a very special bond with members of ADSSA which allowed her to easily connect with them.
Kay was always bubbly, full of life and accommodating. She was a “people’s person” who will be greatly missed.

Rest in peace Kay, with your beloved Russ