9/11 volunteer creates film on Ground Zero health impacts
A 9/11 Ground Zero volunteer who was diagnosed with lung cancer in 2017 says his illness stems from cleaning up the attack site, and he is now making a documentary to raise awareness.
NEW YORK -A 9/11 volunteer who helped clear debris at Ground Zero is raising awareness about long-term health struggles as the nation prepares to mark 25 years since the attacks.
Craig Sotkovsky was in Jersey City when he saw one of the World Trade Center towers on fire and felt compelled to assist with cleanup efforts.
Drawing on his background in construction, he spent two days operating a bobcat and working on a bucket brigade to clear debris from the site.
He described seeing complete pandemonium, a nightmare and things humans should not have to see
In 2012, Sotkovsky received a lung cancer diagnosis that he attributes directly to his exposure at Ground Zero.
“It’s been an event in my life I want people to be aware of because there are people 25 years later getting diagnosed with exotic cancers,” Sotkovsky said. “There are thousands of people like me in this situation.”
Because he volunteered independently rather than through a company or organization, he says unaffiliated volunteers were forgotten.
“I’m spreading awareness because the caption phrase is ‘never forget,’ but they forgot about all the volunteers because I wasn’t associated with a company or any kind of organization,” Sotkovsky said
Although he is part of the World Trade Center Health Program, he could no longer afford it and now receives healthcare in Mexico
What we don’t know:
<a href="https://healthylife7.com/health-officials-warn-of-possible-rabies-exposure-at-events-in-this-nc-county/” title=”Health officials warn of possible rabies exposure at events in this NC County”>Officials have not confirmed how many independent volunteers are currently facing long-term illness without financial assistance.
It remains unclear what specific funding or re the future.
What’s next:
Sotkovsky is currently working on a documentary to highlight individuals who continue to battle severe health conditions decades after the tragedy.
He plans to return to New York City in a couple of weeks to document stories, remember the event, and raise awareness for thousands of people in similar situations.
If you would like to donate to his film, click here.
Thevolunteer Craig Sotkovsky, who shared his personal experience, health history, and upcoming documentary plans.
New YorkSeptember 11News
