Rochester Mom Turns Son’s Severe Lead Poisoning into Advocacy

Jamie Peterson of Rochester, NY, is raising awareness about lead poisoning after her son Ryder tested with an alarmingly high blood lead level of 182—nearly four times the emergency threshold. Peterson moved into a rental property in 2021, unaware it contained lead hazards. Her son, then 18 months old, showed developmental delays and was diagnosed with Pica, a condition causing him to chew non-food items—linked to lead exposure. Over two years, Ryder underwent 11 rounds of chelation therapy. Though his lead levels have dropped, he remains non-verbal and not potty trained. Jamie learned the house had not been condemned and fears that many Rochester families are unknowingly living in similar conditions. She now works to warn other parents and advocate for stronger preventative measures and transparency around lead risks. Monroe County’s lead prevention efforts are ongoing, with new data expected in October.

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Source: Rochester First