This blog is intended to be about my experiences. I have been sharing my experiences about my cancer (the primary fodder of this interface). But I have other experiences - outside of my cancer circle - that also have an overall effect on my life and my health.
I was in Manhattan on that fateful 11th day of September 20 years ago. Though my NYC offices were located in Midtown (Times Square; just over 4 miles north of Ground Zero), I have visual and auditory memories that are seared into my subconscious. Unlike so many others who were much more unfortunate in so many incalculable ways - some making the ultimate sacrifice - I was never in any danger nor have I been affected in any way with any long-term health issues as a result of the aftermath (my cancer is completely unrelated). There was a "moment" there in the early stages when we weren't sure who the targets were and that possibly a major tourist mecca such as Times Square could also have been used to send a menacing message like the other symbols of the American way (Wall Street, Pentagon, Washington, DC - it is believed that the Shanksville, PA plane was likely headed to the White House/Capitol before incredibly brave civilians gave their lives to stop that plane/that plan). But as quickly as they began, the unfathomable attacks ended and we knew we were safe . . . but not unaffected.
Like my cancer, I realize that my 9/11 fate could have been so much worse and that there are many, many other folks in and around this area who were and still are suffering from the results of this historic event (virtually NO ONE in the world was untouched by the tragedy). For some - their disease is slow and insidious; the ironically cruel result of their selfless efforts. For some - their struggle has been going on for 20 years now, and shows no signs of dissipating or diminishing. For some - their loss is so profound and life-changing that they will understandably never be free of its aching memory.
We all remember major life events (particularly tragic ones) in different ways and with different levels of intensity - regardless of our proximity or personal pain. As we annually recall THIS moment, let us never forget the ones that we have lost, and never forget the ones that are left.
