Leah Smith, a beloved wife and mother from Sarina, Queensland, passed away just months before her 50th birthday due to mesothelioma, a cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Her family, devastated by her loss, decided to raise awareness about asbestos-related diseases by organizing an event called Ride in Shorts for Leah, where participants ride horses in Leah’s favorite attire to raise funds and educate the public.
The Smith family’s initiative aimed to prevent future deaths caused by asbestos exposure by raising awareness about the dangers of the material. Asbestos Diseases Society of Australia CEO Melita Markey emphasized the importance of early detection in asbestos-related illnesses, as they can take decades to manifest. Children are particularly vulnerable to asbestos exposure due to their increased likelihood of ingesting fibers that can lead to cancer later in life.
The Ride in Shorts for Leah event raised nearly $3,500 to increase awareness about asbestos-related diseases, with the hope of making it an annual event to raise more funds and educate the public. Participants, including members of the Sarina Equestrian and Vaulting Club, honored Leah’s memory by riding in shorts and remembering her generous spirit. The Smith family’s efforts to turn their tragedy into a movement to prevent future asbestos-related deaths highlight the importance of raising awareness about the dangers of asbestos exposure.
