Ladera Ranch confronts rare pediatric cancer cluster

A cluster of six children in Ladera Ranch, an affluent Orange County community, has been diagnosed with the rare cancer Ewing sarcoma, prompting concern among families. Among the cases was 17-year-old Brody Matteson, who died after a battle with the disease. Parents are urging officials to explore possible links to pesticide exposure as residents push for changes to landscaping and pest-control practices, even as county health officials say no clear pattern has emerged and plan further review.