Tazewell County is located in rural southwest Virginia with a population of 40,595. In recent years many young people have been given the diagnosis that no one, especially teenagers, should ever have to hear. Cancer. The county itself has a cancer rate higher than the national average, with many diagnoses being rare forms of cancer. Our community is in desperate need of further advocacy, as this is far from normal. In 2016 Virginia Tech did a study on many environmental factors in the area. Results showed radon in 30% of buildings tested and lead concentrations in the water at the schools. Nothing further was done. Rural Virginia deserves answers. I am asking that you sign this petition as there is strength in numbers. Our community is hurting as we are losing young people far too often to this terrible disease. These people are not just a number. They are sons, daughters, sisters, brothers, and friends. Please join our efforts in getting the help we desperately need.