The mesothelioma-related death of an Australian man will be memorialized by both a massive bronze sculpture and a cancer research foundation. Biaggio Signorelli passed away after battling mesothelioma in 2008 at the age of 70.

According to his son Paul, the statue, which will be unveiled later this year, will feature a ”larger than life-size” statue featuring the late Mr. Signorelli, as well as his wife, Fillipa, and his seven grandchildren.

Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer linked almost exclusively to asbestos exposure. Inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers can also lead to lung cancer and asbestosis. Sadly, mesothelioma is incurable, although some patients do benefit from palliative measures such as chemotherapy.

A foundation has been established in the name of the late Mr. Signorelli which supports research into early detection, treatment and, perhaps someday, a cure for the rare cancer.

”What was originally conceived as a personal tribute to my father has become a celebration of all migrants,” explained his son Paul. ”It’s our family’s gift to the people of Australia.” Signorelli immigrated to Australia from Italy when he was just a teenager. Paul says that the sculpture is so faithful to life that when his mother went to see the piece unveiled in the sculptor’s studio, she took one look and burst into tears.

The piece, entitled Life from a Suitcase, was sculpted by Terrance Plowright.

”It was a great challenge and a great pleasure to work with the family,” said Plowright.

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