My memories of Three Mile Island back in March of 1979 were primarily the concern for my immediate family and the safety for my 2 year old daughter and unborn baby.
My cousin called me and told me to close all windows and stay indoors.
On March 28th, ironically I was at the office of my OBGYN for my 8th month pregnancy checkup. A very good friend’s mother was also in the waiting room with me and informed me of the accident at the plant. We chatted about it but no one in the office was overly worried as no one had any details of the situation. Over the next few days we were inundated with conflicting information. My cousin called me and told me to close all windows and stay indoors.
By Friday the fire engines began announcing that all pregnant women and small children should evacuate the area immediately. That began our journey first to a friend’s house, and next to my aunt and uncle’s lake home, and finally to a hotel.
With no cell phones or text messaging we were unaware as to the whereabouts of some of our friends and family.
While staying with my aunt and uncle, I began to hemorrhage and my husband took me to the nearest hospital near Lake Wynonah. At this time, I was scared and worried about my 2 year old daughter, Aimee, but fortunately she was unaware and had a wonderful time with family members despite the upheaval.
I had to spend a few days in the hospital all the while praying I would not have this baby away from home. With no cell phones or text messaging we were unaware as to the whereabouts of some of our friends and family.
We were finally able to return to our home on April 9th, the same day our second little girl Ali was born, 3 weeks early. We were grateful for my mother, sister, and my father and step mother who all help to take care of our home and our “left behind dog.”
It was a hectic, memorable time for everyone, but out of a scary situation we welcomed our new healthy baby girl back home.
Jan