On Tuesday, Marcy Borders, known as “dust lady” for the iconic World Trade Center photo of her leaving the aftermath died from stomach cancer at only 42-years-old. Stories like hers are all too common among survivors, journalists, and first responders, with dozens of chronic illnesses being linked to the attack.
Exposure to the toxic chemicals has been linked to dozens of types of cancer, respiratory disorders, digestive disorders, and PTSD.
"One year from now, there will be approximately 70,000 enrolled patients … who are in that program who have had documented exposures that were certified by the federal government who will no longer have coverage under that program unless it is re-certified," Dr. David Prezant, chief medical officer of the FDNY, told NBC.
"More than 33,000 9/11 responders and survivors have an illness or injury caused by the attacks or their aftermath, and over two-thirds of those have more than one illness," New York Senator Kirsten Gillibrand wrote in a statement. "Many are disabled and can no longer work."
