David Foster
Patient Advocate, Mesothelioma Support Leader & Host of MESO: The Mesothelioma Podcast
David is dedicated to guiding mesothelioma families through medical, emotional, and legal challenges with clarity, compassion, and practical resources.
Primary Role
Patient Advocate & Support Leader
Podcast Host
MESO: The Mesothelioma Podcast
Firm/Organization:
Danziger & DeLlano Mesothelioma Law Firm
Mission / Target Audience:
David's Story
My father was a dentist by trade but purchased a working farm when I was 8 years old. From that day forward, my brothers, sisters, and I were given work assignments to tend to the animals, crops, and machinery. There was always something to do, which kept us busy daily. We gained a sense of responsibility and understood the importance of hard work and working together. Along the way, I also learned I had a talent for building things and was granted a full scholarship to college as a teaching assistant in cabinet making and industrial arts. This opportunity allowed me to obtain a Bachelor degree in Animal Science and a Master’s degree in Plant Science. I started work on a PhD in marine biology at the University of Oregon. Still, before I could finish, I was recruited by a pharmaceutical company to work in their science and marketing division. Over the next 15 years, I climbed up the corporate ladder to become a testing and product development manager.
In 1999, my father died of asbestos lung cancer. He was a good man, and we were not ready for him to go. My mom lost her partner, I lost a mentor, and my children will never have the opportunity to meet their beloved grandpa who wanted to build them wooden toys or cedar chests. He died way too early, and it changed me and my family forever. Shortly after he passed, I decided to make a career change and was fortunate to meet Paul Danziger and Rod De Llano, owners of the Danziger & De Llano law mesothelioma firm. They had been helping victims of asbestos cancer for several years and decided to change their business model to become more client-centric. They asked me to help them shift the focus of their law firm to become more conscientious and compassionate. Over the last 15 years, Rod, Paul, and I have worked tirelessly to build a team of highly trained legal professionals who made our clients feel like their voices matter and that they were part of a family. From our lawyers to paralegals, our team was available 7 days a week to assist our clients and ensure they have the best medical and legal assistance possible. We have been recognized for our innovation, and many of our clients have graciously provided testimonials about our service level.
The Mesothelioma Podcast
David hosts a medically informed, support-focused show for families facing mesothelioma with expert guests, caregivers, and survivors. Available on multiple podcast platforms.
Leading the Path to Justice
As Executive Director of Danziger & De Llano, David serves as the strategic engine behind one of the nation’s premier mesothelioma advocacy firms.
With over 30 years of firm experience and more than $2 billion recovered for victims of asbestos exposure, his leadership ensures that every client benefits from a powerhouse legal infrastructure designed for one purpose: holding negligent corporations accountable.
Operational Excellence
Oversees the nationwide coordination of complex mesothelioma claims, ensuring that families from Texas to New York receive elite-level representation.
Strategic Resource Management
Manages the firm’s access to over 60 asbestos trust funds, streamlining the path to compensation for those who cannot wait for lengthy trial dates.
Advocacy Beyond the Courtroom
Directs the firm’s mission to provide 24/7 support, bridging the gap between high-stakes litigation and the compassionate care patients require during treatment.
Expertise in Occupational Exposure
High-Risk Industry Knowledge
David provides strategic oversight for cases originating from America’s most dangerous legacy industries:
Petrochemical & Refining: Understanding the unique exposure risks in Texas oil refineries and chemical plants.
Maritime & Shipyards: Insight into the heavy use of asbestos insulation in Navy vessels and commercial shipyards.
Power Generation: Knowledge of the boilers, turbines, and gaskets that utilized asbestos for heat resistance in power plants nationwide.
Legacy Product Liability
He has spearheaded the firm’s efforts to track and litigate against the manufacturers of asbestos-containing materials, including:
Industrial Insulation: (Block insulation, pipe covering, and cement).
Automotive Components: (Brake linings, clutches, and gaskets).
Construction Materials: (Joint compounds, roofing shingles, and vinyl flooring).
Education
Graduate Studies, Marine Biology & Biological Oceanography
University of Oregon
(1987–1988)
M.S., Botany/Plant Biology
Oklahoma State University
(1985–1987)
B.S., Zoology/Animal Biology
Oklahoma State University
(1985–1987)