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Press Media Wire (Press Release) - May 28,2009 - (PressMediaWire) - NEW BERN, NC — Increased funding could be on the way for the medical programs that help thousands of people affected by the toxic air created by the attacks of 9/11.
President Barack Obama has set aside $70 million for 9/11 health programs as part of his budget for 2010. The money is by no means guaranteed, but it is a welcome effort in the eyes of 9/11 first responders and the residents of lower Manhattan.
“This is a very big step in the right direction,” says Steve Centore, a federal first responder, nuclear physicist, Navy veteran and author of the new book One of Them: A First Responder’s Story. “It’s been such a struggle for people like me to get the help we need when it comes to paying for our massive medical bills. It shouldn’t have been this hard.”
The appropriation, if approved, will go toward existing programs that help 9/11 first responders, students and residents of lower Manhattan who were affected by the attacks. Congressional leaders are hoping the money is the first step in legislation to provide long-term health care for those affected.
“I hope that eventually, the public will realize that this expenditure is something that is needed and justified,” says Mr. Centore. “A lot of people, including myself, are really sick. Some are dying.”
One of Them is Mr. Centore’s shocking account of his months at ground zero and the endless medical problems he has had since. He’s hoping his book will achieve the following:
• Get help for the 100,000 workers and volunteers who were exposed to what is now known to be toxic dust at ground zero.
• Tell the public about the half a million New Yorkers who were exposed to some form of toxin.
• Secure support for the 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, which would provide more than $10 billion for health care and reopen the Victims’ Compensation Fund.
• Find treatment for some of the 50,000-plus first responders who have declared illnesses.
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