My Family's Cancer Journey and What It Taught Me About PFAS (Forever Chemicals)

I used to be the kind of person who didn’t think twice about my health. I loved junk food, skipped doctor visits, and never imagined I’d be reading ingredient labels or researching cookware materials.

Then my sister got cancer. Before that, both of my parents died of cancer too. After my sister’s diagnosis, I started questioning the safety of our environment — what’s in

our food, water, personal care products, and homes. What I found disturbed me: over and over, I came across the same term — PFAS, or “forever chemicals.”

Scratched non-stick pans can release toxic PFAS into your food.

What Are PFAS (Forever Chemicals)?

PFAS (short for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals used in thousands of everyday products:

• Nonstick cookware

• Water-resistant clothing

• Fast food wrappers and packaging

• Makeup and personal care products

• Cleaning supplies

They're called forever chemicals because they don't break down in the environment — or in our bodies. PFAS have been found in the blood of nearly every American, including newborn babies.

Why PFAS Exposure Matters

Research has linked PFAS exposure to serious health risks, including:

• Cancer

• Hormonal disruption

• Weakened immune systems

• Liver and kidney damage

• Developmental delays in children

I’m not saying PFAS caused my family’s health issues — but I am saying we live in a world flooded with chemicals that weren’t designed with long-term safety in mind. I no longer feel okay ignoring that.

Where I Found PFAS in My Own Home

As I started digging, I found PFAS in products I used every day:

• Cookware: I swapped out old nonstick pans for cast iron and stainless steel

• Water: I installed a certified PFAS-reducing water filter

• Clothing: I avoid “stain-resistant” and “water-repellent” fabrics unless I know what’s in them

• Toiletries: I switched to PFAS-free deodorants and lotions

• Food packaging: I cut back on fast food and microwave popcorn due to PFAS in grease-resistant wrappers

I’m not perfect — but I’m doing what I can, one step at a time.

Is Anyone Taking Action?

The EPA has recently issued legal limits for PFAS in drinking water, and some states and major brands are working to phase them out. But progress is slow, and much of the damage has already been done.

That’s why I’m not waiting.This blog is my way of taking action — by learning, sharing, and trying to live with less exposure to forever chemicals.

What You’ll Find on This Blog

I’m not here to scare you or make you throw everything away. I’m here to:

• Share PFAS-related research

• Review PFAS-free products

• Offer real-life tips for reducing exposure

• Help others feel less overwhelmed and more informed

If you've ever wondered:

• “Is there PFAS in my water?”

• “What nonstick pans are safe?”

• “How do I avoid forever chemicals in my makeup?”

You're in the right place.

Let’s Learn Together

This is just the beginning of my journey.Thanks for being here.If you have questions or have found something related to PFAS that others should know, reach out and share it with me.

About the Author: Erik is the writer behind The Forever Chemical Files, a blog about living with less exposure to PFAS (forever chemicals). After seeing cancer affect his family, he set out to find safer, PFAS-free alternatives — and share what he learns along the way.