Climb for the Cure

It's been 54 years since the last nuclear test was conducted at the Nevada Test Site, what was once "the most nuclear-bombed place on the planet." The above-ground explosions were carried out from 1951 to 1962, just 65 miles northwest of Las Vegas. But the radiation still lingers, and the so-called "downwinders" in Nevada, southern Utah, northern Arizona and much of the rest of the southwest, are still feeling the fallout. 

Five entire Arizona counties, Apache, Gila, Navajo, Coconino and Yavapai, and part of Mohave County north of the Grand Canyon, are covered under the federal Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA).  Those who were in close proximity to testing and have been diagnosed and/or lost their lives, including uranium workers, downwinders-and their survivors-are eligible for compensation and other benefits. Cancer rates are high among these groups.

In the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) offices throughout Northern Arizona, colleagues have watched friends, family members and other colleagues fight various cancers, and often lose those battles.   

That's why The Climb to Conquer Cancer/Flagstaff and other events like this benefitting various non-profits are important to colleagues who participate in the State Employees Charitable Campaign (SECC). For them, it's extremely personal. DES colleagues Stacey Apodaca, Human Services Unit Supervisor, and Vera Ruiz, Human Services Specialist III, have made it their mission to raise awareness for those suffering with cancer. They participated in the Climb to Conquer Cancer in 2014, and again this year, in honor of two of their own family members struggling with the disease.

Children, elderly adults and even some in wheelchairs also participated in the seven-mile hike. "With every step, I reminded myself that this was nothing compared to the suffering of those with cancer," said Stacey.

Vera is also actively involved in local cancer groups, including the annual Winslow Cancer Walk. Sadly, the family member for whom she walked just recently lost her hard-fought battle with cancer. The loss has been very hard on the family.

Both colleagues will continue raising awareness in the fight against cancer, and encouraging people to get regular checkups. They are also hoping that local cancer support groups will one day be included in the many non-profits included in SECC. 

To donate to the American Cancer Society or for a list of charities in your area, visit the Arizona State Employees Charitable Campaign website for more information.

By Misty Kaufman