Columbia Family Battles Mesothelioma in Quest for Justice Against Johnson & Johnson

COLUMBIA — A Tough Battle for Justice and Family

As clouds gathered over Columbia on a recent morning, local resident Michael Perry faced a storm of his own making. Perry, 54, known for his love of fishing and family, has spent the last year grappling with a devastating diagnosis of mesothelioma, a rare type of lung cancer. This diagnosis, which he received in 2023, followed a challenging battle with COVID-19 that unleashed symptoms far more severe than he anticipated.

For Perry and his spouse, Lonnie Long, the news of mesothelioma hit hard. Doctors estimated he had just 6 to 18 months left to live. “Taking deep breaths can be painful,” Perry shared, expressing the struggle he faces daily. These health issues can really take a toll, but Perry remains determined to spend quality time with his loved ones while they navigate this challenging journey together. They have, after all, a small but lively family that includes two Havanese dogs, Abraham and Keziah.

A Fight for Accountability

As he battled his illness, Perry felt a fire ignite within him. It was an urge to seek accountability from the companies he believed played a role in his suffering. In August, with the date looming for a major trial against Johnson & Johnson, a multi-billion dollar corporation, he couldn’t help but feel the weight of the world on his shoulders. The fear of being cross-examined and labeled a liar by seasoned attorneys left him sleepless. “It was like living a nightmare all over again,” he reflected.

After nearly two weeks in court, the jury reached a verdict that stunned many. They awarded Perry and Long a whopping $63.4 million, attributing his lung cancer to asbestos found in Johnson & Johnson’s baby powder—a product that Perry had used for most of his life. Yet, despite this win, Perry’s heart remains heavy with the reality; he worries that he may never see that money due to the lengthy appeal process that could stretch on for years.

Facing the Future with Hope

As difficult as this journey has been, Perry and Long are focusing on making the most of their remaining time together. Their life on Johns Island is filled with bittersweet moments. They dream of taking one last trip fishing offshore, something they hope can become a reality soon. “We’re trying to check items off our bucket list. It’s all about making memories now,” Perry said, conveying a bittersweet longing coupled with determination.

Perry’s case resonates with many who feel powerless in the face of corporate giants. He has shared his story widely, wanting to be a voice for those who may be suffering silently. “I wanted to put the truth out there,” he said emphatically.

The Fight Ahead

As they await the higher courts’ decision on the appeal filed by Johnson & Johnson—a company battling thousands of similar lawsuits—Perry and Long are eager to hear if their victory will be upheld. Perry knows, however, that time is no longer a luxury he possesses. “It’s really bittersweet,” he admitted, recounting the emotional rollercoaster that has defined the past year.

He reflects on his family’s future, hoping to ensure that they will be taken care of once he is gone. The financial compensation from the lawsuit, he states, would help provide for Long and their playful pups, further motivating him to keep fighting.

With each day carrying a mix of hope and urgency, Perry’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the battles many face in the health care system, as well as the impact of major corporations in our lives. As cloudy skies loom above Columbia, the sun shines brightly on a resilient family determined to seize each moment together, a testament to love, courage, and unwavering hope.

As if echoing the challenge of his journey, Perry’s mantra remains clear: “No matter what happens, we will face it together, one day at a time.”