Fight Continues for Radiation Exposure Victims in St. Charles County

ST. PETERS, Mo. — The recent passage of the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) has marked a significant milestone for victims of radioactive contamination in St. Charles County.

However, for many residents, the fight continues as they seek clarity on the path forward.

On Saturday, State Representative Tricia Byrnes hosted a town hall at the St. Charles City-County Library to address these concerns.

The event drew a standing-room-only crowd, underscoring the community's deep investment in this issue.

Among the attendees was Sally Lavigne, who shared her personal journey.

Diagnosed with thyroid and renal cancer a year ago, Lavigne recounted her childhood spent playing in areas now known to be contaminated.

"We played in the creek. I played on the soccer fields at Ferdinand Park. We lived in Spanish Lake, so I automatically thought that this has to be Cold Water Creek," she said.

Her story resonated with many in the room, each carrying their own experiences of illness and loss.

Rep. Byrnes emphasized the importance of community advocacy, stating, "I wanted to empower everybody in that room to be an advocate and be a voice because there's so many people across this region harmed and so many that won't even know it and that acknowledgment and that awareness will absolutely save lives."

The town hall provided crucial information on the RECA application process, now open to residents in 21 zip codes across St. Louis City, St. Louis County, and St. Charles County.

These areas have been identified as affected by federal radioactive activities.

Rep. Byrnes highlighted the need to recognize the impact on St. Charles County, stating, "Today was about acknowledging the people from our region and Saint Charles County because there has been an incredible amount of downplaying of what's happened to people that went to Francis Howell, that started with the Department of Energy."

The overwhelming turnout at the library, with attendees filling the parking lot and occupying every available space inside, reflected the community's collective pain and determination.

Lavigne noted, "That was emotional, just the walk here, knowing that everybody in there has been affected by this, so we're all bonded in one way or another."

Looking ahead, Rep. Byrnes assured attendees that efforts are ongoing to protect the community at the state level.

"We have put legislation in place. We are going to keep working to protect this community at the state level too," she said.

While the journey has been arduous, Lavigne expressed hope for the future.

"I can't even tell you how much happened in the last year and knowing that there's going to be a brighter future, it feels really good," she said.

For those needing assistance with the RECA application, the advocacy group Just Moms STL is offering support.

While the online application is expected to be available later this year, residents can apply through the provided channels.

As the community continues to navigate the aftermath of radioactive exposure, the collective resolve remains strong, ensuring that the fight for justice and compensation persists.