Families of former students from Francis Howell High School are seeking answers about the potential health risks associated with the school’s proximity to a former bomb plant site. Cindy Rydberg, a 1985 graduate, experienced health issues related to an autoimmune thyroid disorder, which she believes could be linked to environmental exposure near the Weldon Spring site.
The Weldon Spring site, which served as a disposal area for uranium and thorium in the 1960s, underwent cleanup in the early 2000s. However, many students and faculty were unaware of the site’s history and potential risks until years later. Denise Lucks, a 2005 graduate, developed a rare brain tumor at a young age and underwent multiple surgeries, resulting in permanent hearing loss and other health issues.
Sen. Josh Hawley has called for increased testing by federal and state agencies to assess the current risk of exposure for students in the St. Louis and St. Charles region. If the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act bill is passed, former students of Francis Howell High School may be eligible for compensation.
The Francis Howell School District acknowledged efforts by former students and staff to investigate potential health problems related to exposure to contaminants from the former Ordnance Works. The district stated that the site is managed by the Office of Legacy Management, which conducts regular inspections and assessments to protect human health and the environment.
Despite the existing monitoring efforts, both Rydberg and Lucks advocate for more testing to be conducted in the area. They express frustration over the lack of comprehensive testing, considering the potential health risks associated with the Weldon Spring site. As former students who cherish their time at Francis Howell High School, they hope for increased awareness and proactive measures to ensure the well-being of current and future students in the region.
