Health

72 years later: DNA helps 2 sisters meet for first time

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. — Two sisters are making up for lost time.

For 72 years, Sandy Blustein and Mariann Flaschen had no idea the other existed.

Both adopted at birth, Blustein grew up in Illinois and Flaschen in Missouri.

As years passed, Blustein moved to Seattle, Wash., and Flaschen relocated to St. Augustine.

Ironically, both were married on June 6, 1971.

More recently, Blustein wanted to learn more about her background, specifically her medical history. She submitted a DNA test, and upon receiving the results she learned she had a relative in Florida. They reportedly shared 12% DNA.

As it turned out, this was Blustein’s nephew.

“Michael contacted me and he said ‘Mom I think you have a half-sister.' I said, ‘Come on!’” Flaschen said. “He said ‘Mom DNA doesn’t lie.’”

Later, Blustein and Flaschen learned that they have the same biological mothers. Although they are getting a late start on their relationship, the sisters say they plan to make the most of the time they have left together.

They aren’t alone.

Today, families around the country are finding relatives through these genetic testing kits.