Uncovering the Impact: NYC Firefighter Deaths from 9/11 Illnesses Match Casualties of the Attack

In a tragic turn of events, the number of New York City firefighters who lost their lives on 9/11, which stood at 343, is now the same number of FDNY employees who have succumbed to illnesses associated with that fateful day and its aftermath (source). FDNY commissioner and union leaders have emphasized the growing nature of this unfortunate statistic, underscoring the urgent need for fully funded resources to support the 9/11 first responders (source).

During a news conference, Andrew Ansbro, President of the Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York (UFA), and Jim Brosi, leader of the Uniformed Fire Officers Association (UFOA), expressed their deep sorrow for their union members and the impact on the affected families. They highlighted the untimely death of Firefighter Robert Fulco, the 343rd FDNY employee to succumb to 9/11-related illnesses (source). Hilda Vannata, an FDNY EMT, also recently passed away from a 9/11 illness (source).

FDNY Commissioner Laura Kavanagh acknowledged the heart-wrenching reality that 343 lives were lost on 9/11, followed by another 343 lives due to 9/11-related illnesses. She reaffirmed the FDNY’s commitment to ensure that these brave individuals will forever be remembered and honored as part of their legacy and promise (source).

According to Ansbro, the list of individuals falling ill in the two decades since the 9/11 attacks continues to grow, encompassing various cancers and lung diseases associated with exposure to hazardous conditions. The number of affected individuals, as well as the illnesses themselves, are on the rise (source).

The urgency for advocacy has never been greater to address the needs of the thousands who were present in Lower Manhattan in the aftermath of 9/11. Currently, over 3,000 current and former FDNY workers are battling cancer, while an additional 8,000 individuals suffer from other illnesses related to their work at Ground Zero. Although the federal 9/11 victims’ health and compensation programs are currently fully funded, regular congressional funding is crucial to meet the increasing demand for support (source).

Jim Brosi emphasized the need for increased funding from Congress, citing the disparity between the requested amount of over $2 billion and the granted $600 million. He urged Congress to demonstrate greater commitment in the coming years to adequately provide assistance to those affected (source).

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