24 years have passed from the tragedy that began the century. The piling years offer no comfort or answer to the grief, hardship and loss that defined September 11, 2001. The day replays in the minds of those who witnessed it -- who were alive to feel the shock and pain and worry in real time -- while the younger generations can only imagine the rubble and thick dust that hung in the air of New York City, or maybe see the scars of the day resurface in photos and stories.
Memorials and ceremonies offer a communal observance and recognition for the losses we as Americans experienced that day. It could be a loss of a loved one, the loss of healthy lungs, which many first responders from that day now experience, or a loss of innocence and safety.
2,997 people died. Thousands more returned, again and again for months, to clear out the debris and recover the dead, breathing in toxins to do so.
Embedded in the pain are braveries. We honor those lost and hurt that day,but celebrating the American spirit is also part of this day. First responders and civilians worked days with little sleep to recover the injured. Fires in the pile continued to ignite for two months after. During the tragedy, thousands of brave Americans pushed on and through, facing evidence of the deaths each day to build the city and country back up, and giving families closure. Their perseverance saved lives.
The anniversary is only one day. It will come and go, the days will pass and September will come to a close. But 9/11 survivors, those who were at the scene pushing aside the rubble, inhaling air filled with carcinogenic fumes, will continue to live their lives affected by what they experienced as they endure the ongoing burden of their psychological and physical health conditions. Families, friends, survivors from the scene, people who were close to the victims do not have to suffer alone. Programs support them for taking on more than their share of hurt in the tragedy. The World Trade Center Health Program offers services to first responders and survivors and supply care specialized to the developing needs of those who put themselves in harm's way to help others.