Stephanie D. — Our Experiences Should Not Be Forgotten

Stephanie D. and her family lived in Arvada near 80th and Oak from August 1977 through April 1991. The family also spent summer weekends at Standley Lake.

Stephanie's father developed oligodendroglioma brain cancer. After new growth was found in 2018, he underwent surgery at MD Anderson. He died January 20, 2021, at age 77. He also experienced thyroid nodules, a lung nodule, a kidney mass, rheumatoid arthritis and COPD.

Stephanie's mother has experienced thyroid nodules. One sister developed a Grade 2 diffuse astrocytoma, thyroid cancer and pancreatic autoimmune disease. Another sister has experienced rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid cancer and autoimmune disease. Stephanie herself has suspicious thyroid nodules that are monitored, ulcerative proctitis, plaque psoriasis and vitiligo.

Stephanie reports that all five members of her immediate family have experienced thyroid nodules and autoimmune diseases. In her extended family, her brother-in-law and one uncle developed prostate cancer, and another uncle developed kidney cancer.

Stephanie believes Rocky Flats played a role in her family's experience. She has become active in advocacy concerning recognition and assistance for affected communities.

“We cannot change what happened to our family. But our experiences should not be forgotten, and the generations that come after us deserve answers.”