#29 The Cost of Coal: Unpacking Black Lung Disease and Its Impact on Miners

On this episode of CommonHealth, host Tracy Douglas talks about coal worker's pneumoconiosis, or “black lung disease,” with three folks impacted by black lung in different ways: Dr. Drew Harris, medical director of the Black Lung Program at Stone Mountain Health Services, and Mr. John and Mrs. Vonda Robinson, a husband and wife duo who have advocated for miners affected by black lung since Mr. John’s diagnosis at 47 years old after working almost three decades in the mines of southwestern Virginia.

Together, Tracy, Dr. Drew, and the Robinsons give intimate insight into black lung disease: Its misconception as one disease, what it’s like living with black lung, and how difficult it is for miners and their families who are impacted by black lung to get a disability stipend and insurance coverage for their care. You won’t want to miss this incredible and important conversation.

With special guests:

Dr. Drew Harris, Medical Director, Black Lung Program at Stone Mountain Health Services, Vonda Robinson, Vice President, National Black Lung Association, and John Robinson, Retired Coal Miner and Coal Miner Advocate