Zadroga Act

On September 11th, 2001, nobody will ever forget hearing the news about two airplanes crashing into the World Trade Center; or learning that our nation was under attack.  In the midst of all this fear and uncertainty, our first responders demonstrated an extraordinary strength of character. Words like “bravery,” “courage,” and “valor” are frequently used […]

Phil Angello needed help with his paperwork. A union plumber and military veteran, Angello responded to Ground Zero soon after 9/11 to join a search, rescue, and recovery team. While there, Angello located victims, removed debris, and transported critical supplies. Tragically, he was also exposed to the toxic Ground Zero air, which included pulverized glass […]

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month. The nearly 500,000 first responders and people working, living, and studying in Lower Manhattan on or after 9/11 have a higher risk of developing respiratory illnesses and 68 different types of cancer that are presumed linked to the WTC toxins, such as lung cancer. After the attacks, the toxic […]

This year on Thanksgiving, we have so much to be grateful for. While we consider every day one to appreciate the tireless efforts of health care workers, firefighters, police officers, EMT’s, Army National Guard, and all those who have served and protected our wonderful country, this year feels particularly special. As the pandemic slowly but surely […]

Firefighters who worked at the World Trade Center (WTC) site on or after 9/11 have a 13 percent higher risk of cancer, especially prostate and thyroid cancer, according to a recent study. The study, published in the journal Occupational & Environmental Medicine, also found the WTC firefighters were diagnosed nearly four years earlier than other firefighters […]

Lt. Edith Torres was off-duty when the hijacked planes crashed into the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.  The veteran FDNY EMS paramedic soon arrived at Ground Zero, where her partner from Battalion 49 in Astoria, paramedic Carlos Lillo, died searching the North Tower for his wife. Torres was promoted to lieutenant in 2005, […]