For all the immediate confusion surrounding the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, first responders knew exactly where they needed to be: Shanksville, PA, the Pentagon, and Ground Zero in the heart of New York City.
Thousands of brave first responders, police officers, and firefighters rushed to the burning rubble and began to put our country back together.
Many lost their lives trying to save others, and in the years since the attack, others have gotten sick due to their exposure to toxins in the air during the cleanup effort.
As of 2024, more first responders and survivors have lost their lives as a result of 9/11-related illnesses than were killed in the attacks themselves.
In response to the growing number of cancer diagnoses and other health conditions linked to toxic exposure at Ground Zero, Congress reopened the September 11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) to provide compensation to those affected.
As we reflect on the sacrifices of the courageous 9/11 first responders, it's important to remember that, for many, the fight is far from over.
To honor these men and women, we must recall their heroic actions on that tragic day and continue to support them and their families in the years ahead.
Why Are People Still Getting Sick from 9/11?
In the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, a massive cloud of dust resulting from the collapse of the Twin Towers settled over Lower Manhattan.
This dust cloud contained many hazardous materials, including asbestos, concrete, and glass fibers. Countless first responders, school children, and nearby residents breathed in these particles, which have since been linked to serious illnesses.
An estimated 400,000 people were exposed to toxic substances following the attack, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“We had no masks. We had no gear. We had nothing,” explained Phil Rizzo, retired first responder. “I told the other captain, we may be marching these guys to their death.”
Today, more than 21,000 first responders have reported a cancer diagnosis to the World Trade Center (WTC) Health Program.
Because some cancers linked to the 9/11 debris can take decades to appear, many individuals who were exposed may experience health issues in the years to come.
Mesothelioma & 9/11 Asbestos Exposure
There is no safe level of asbestos exposure. Even a single fiber can lead to serious health consequences, and many first responders experienced prolonged exposure after the attack.
Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. It can take 20 to 50 years to develop.
Heroes who risked their lives during the 9/11 rescue and cleanup efforts may only now begin to show symptoms of this cancer.
“220 floors of towers came down with various construction materials that had asbestos in them,” explained Dr. Jacqueline Moline at an Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference. “There was a lot of asbestos in the community.”
At least 24 mesothelioma 9/11 diagnoses have been reported to the WTC Health Program, but many more cases could arise in the years to come.
Deborah Reeve, a paramedic who spent 4 months working at Ground Zero, was one of the first to get mesothelioma after 9/11. She passed away from this cancer in 2006, leaving behind her husband and two children. Her doctor stated 9/11 was her only exposure to asbestos.
Mesothelioma claims can help first responders with asbestos-related diseases secure much-needed compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more.
Contact Sokolove Law now to learn more about your options after a mesothelioma diagnosis.
The Legacy of Luis G. Alvarez, 9/11 Cancer Advocate
In 2019, retired NYPD detective Luis G. Alvarez delivered an emotional testimony at a congressional hearing on a bill to extend funding for the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF).
Joined by other 9/11 cancer survivors, Alvarez urged Congress to provide continued support for the first responders falling ill from toxic exposure.
The hearing took place just one day before Alvarez was scheduled for his 69th round of chemotherapy. Despite his condition, he made the trip to Washington to remind lawmakers of their promise to never forget.
"We showed the world that we would never back down from terrorism,” expressed Alvarez. “Now, the 9/11 illnesses have taken many of us, and we are all worried about our children, our spouses, and our families, and what happens if we are not here.”
Alvarez received a standing ovation. Sadly, just days later, he was declared too weak for another round of chemotherapy and passed away less than 3 weeks after his testimony.
His words had a powerful impact. In July 2019, Congress passed the bill with overwhelming support, and the president signed it into law, permanently authorizing funding for the VCF.
As of August 2024, the VCF has awarded more than $14.25 Billion to survivors and their families, including over $1.25 Billion in 2024 alone.
To this day, Luis Alvarez’s name stands alongside fellow 9/11 advocates James Zadroga and Ray Pfeifer in the title of the bill.
How to Honor Rescue and Recovery Workers on September 11
In 2019, the 9/11 Memorial Glade at the World Trade Center Memorial was unveiled. The Glade is dedicated to those who’ve suffered or died from exposure to the hazardous materials and toxins released during the rescue and recovery efforts.
Six granite slabs inlaid with steel recovered from the World Trade Center line a peaceful path through the Memorial Glade. The space stands as a quiet tribute to the first responders who risked their lives to bring hope to a devastated city.
As we reflect on their legacy, here are a few ways you can honor 9/11 first responders who gave so much:
- Visit a Memorial: Pay your respects at a 9/11 memorial and take a moment of silence to honor those lost or suffering. There are over 1,000 memorials across the U.S.
- Participate in the National Day of Service: September 11 is recognized as a National Day of Service, encouraging citizens to do good in their communities and help others.
- Support Mesothelioma Victims: First responders who have developed illnesses like mesothelioma and their families may be eligible for compensation from an asbestos exposure lawsuit.
- Sign Up for a 9/11 Memorial Run: Many communities host races to remember the lives lost and raise funds for survivors and first responders.
- Share Their Stories: Raise awareness about the ongoing health struggles faced by 9/11 heroes. Many people are unaware that individuals continue to suffer from illnesses related to this attack.
This September 11, take a moment to remember the bravery and sacrifice of these heroes. Their contributions to our country will never be forgotten.
Sokolove Law Supports First Responders
Firefighters and first responders face significant dangers in the line of duty, often putting themselves at risk in order to keep us safe.
As an asbestos law firm, Sokolove Law is dedicated to supporting these brave individuals who’ve been exposed to harmful substances while on the job as well as their families.
With decades of experience advocating for injured firefighters, whether due to 9/11 or other toxic exposures like PFAS chemicals in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), we’re here to help you seek the justice you deserve.
Our firm has secured over $9.8 Billion for clients injured through no fault of their own, including many first responders.
Contact our team now for free. It costs nothing to speak with us and learn more about your options.
