NH Examines Spike In Rare Childhood Cancer In Several Towns
RYE, NH (CBS) - A Lego build in the playroom was hard to imagine for the months Amy Kindstedt was confined to the hospital.
"Biggest shock of my life for sure," said Susan Kindstedt, Amy's mother.
Any, now 9, had a rare type of childhood cancer called PPB, so did her youngest brother. The family lives in Rye, New Hampshire
"It brings up some worries - if there is something behind it," said Jason Kindstedt, Amy's father.
The state of New Hampshire found Rye and the four surrounding towns have higher than expected numbers of two types of childhood cancer; RMS that affects connective tissue, and PPB that affects the lungs. The state does not attribute either to environmental causes, and suggests genetics especially in PPB.
"There's a lot of people in the population that have the genetic mutation but never develop PPB," said Susan. The Kindstedts and other parents wonder if the cancer was triggered.
"There are a few concerning areas close by here. We are very close to three Superfund toxic waste clean-up sites," Susan said.
"We're not looking to blame anyone or that sort of thing, but if there is a concern to prevent it from happening to other people," said Jason.
Amy showed off the more than 300 beads representing every procedure she endured. She and her brother are in remission and now enjoy acting like kids. Their parents wish that's all they need to worry about.
The New Hampshire Department of Health is holding a public meeting at Rye Elementary on Tuesday. The state's chief doctor says the meeting it to address parent's concerns, see if they missed any cases, and determine if more investigation needs to be done.