When Mackenzie Lighton was 19 years old, her mum, Debra, was diagnosed with mesothelioma. What followed was a period of caregiving, grief and a growing determination to do something that mattered.

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Western Australia has recorded high rates of the disease, linked in part to the legacy of asbestos mining and the widespread use in construction. Mackenzie believes many people, particularly younger Australians, remain unaware that asbestos risks still exist today.

“I think a lot of young people don’t really know much about the dangers of asbestos, or the history of asbestos mining in Western Australia,” she says.

“People assume it’s not an issue, but it’s still around us. With things like DIY renovations being so common, I think it’s important that people are aware and take precautions.

“If you live in, work on or are renovating a building built before 1990, it is important to check whether asbestos may be present and to use licensed professionals for removal.”

After Debra passed away in 2023, Mackenzie completed a Bachelor of Biomedical Science at the University of Western Australia. She now works full-time as a research assistant with Dr Alistair Cook at the National Centre for Asbestos Related Diseases (NCARD), a research centre of the Institute for Respiratory Health.

Mackenzie’s work with Dr Cook’s team focuses on whether combining radiotherapy with immunotherapy can improve responses for people diagnosed with mesothelioma. Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system recognise and respond to cancer. While treatment options have improved, many people with mesothelioma still need more effective approaches.

“A lot of patients don’t see the benefits we hope for, so we are interested in whether combining treatments can improve response rates and give people better options,” she explains.

The work is also deeply personal. When Debra was diagnosed, the family were told early that time was short.

“It honestly felt like a countdown,” Mackenzie says.

“I would really like to see a future where patients and families have more hope, and where better treatment options are available.

Mackenzie Lighton, NCARD”

Mackenzie also sits on the NCARD Consumer Advisory Panel, bringing her lived experience directly to the centre’s research agenda. She hopes her work and her willingness to share her story can help change what is possible for families facing mesothelioma in the future.

And, she is the face of the Institute for Respiratory Health’s EOFY tax appeal, which is raising funds to support Dr Cook’s team at NCARD. The appeal has been made possible in part by Aerodrome Management Services, whose matched giving offer will double eligible donations made before 30 June.

“If sharing my story can make a difference, then it’s worth it,” she says.

To learn more about the tax appeal, click here.