ISP-FL
600+ Posts
Several years ago my BIL lost his battle with cancer, that was later placed on the VA list for being caused from exposure to AO. A couple years later my cousin died of the same type of cancers. BIL was refused benefits by the VA but just a couple years later my cousin qualified.
I spent most of my time in country with two other buddies. Vernon (Ohio) and Mark (IL). Mark died last week from cancer which began as bladder cancer. He was approved for benefits from the VA so his cancer was related to AO exposure. When I called my buddy Vernon to inform him about Mark, I discovered he was just diagnosed with bladder cancer.
All three of us spent much of our time hauling napalm in a transportation company and then part time in choppers. I am just beginning my research on current developments related to Agent Orange, but it certainly appears direct exposure was not needed in order for this toxic material to continue to kill us in our 60's and 70's. I encourage all of my brothers who served in VN to keep this in mind and do your own research. It also would be a good idea to make sure your Doctor is aware of your posible exposure.
I spent most of my time in country with two other buddies. Vernon (Ohio) and Mark (IL). Mark died last week from cancer which began as bladder cancer. He was approved for benefits from the VA so his cancer was related to AO exposure. When I called my buddy Vernon to inform him about Mark, I discovered he was just diagnosed with bladder cancer.
All three of us spent much of our time hauling napalm in a transportation company and then part time in choppers. I am just beginning my research on current developments related to Agent Orange, but it certainly appears direct exposure was not needed in order for this toxic material to continue to kill us in our 60's and 70's. I encourage all of my brothers who served in VN to keep this in mind and do your own research. It also would be a good idea to make sure your Doctor is aware of your posible exposure.