1,140 people, including first responders, have WTC-related cancer

[Journeyman]

4. A friend of mine, a heavy equipment operator who volunteered a couple months time to help. . .

died some years ago of respiratory illness. He was around 50 years old. He claimed to the end he didn't believe it was a result of working in that pit, and maybe he was right. But it seemed odd to us. He had no medical issues when he left for New York but developed a hacking cough some months after his return. Maybe it was coincidence.

I had a lot of pride in him and his crew. They volunteered without being asked, and went only to help give closure to so many grieving people.

Here's to the hope these later casualties will receive a measure of support commensurate with their sacrifice.