The "Always Remember" Commemorative Book will be sent to all our family members in the first week of June. We are grateful to the hundreds of people who have contributed to this project. Family members have created beautiful tributes to their loved ones. Friends and associates we have worked with over the past ten years have contributed their reflections. Artists have generously shared their talents with all of us. Thanks to the generous support of family members and friends who have purchased tributes for the program, we will be sending the book as a gift to all family members.
Witnessing the terror attacks on September 11, 2001 affected practically all of us who were alive at that time. But, for some, 9/11 was a far more personal and tragic experience. On September 11, 2001, nearly 3,000 families lost a loved one who perished at the World Trade Center, at the Pentagon or in Shanksville, PA. Although nearly 18 years have elapsed, for those who are the surviving family members of 9/11 victims, the impact of that event does not fade, nor do the memories or the sadness and grief that resulted from these terrible losses.
It is with deep sorrow that we regret to inform you that our dear friend and leader, Kurt Wolfgruber, passed away peacefully this morning following a brief, but serious illness. For over a decade Kurt served as Chairman of the Board at Voices of September 11th, with dedication and commitment to ensuring that all those impacted by 9/11 and other tragedies have the support they need to heal.
On May 30, VOICES was honored to witness the dedication and opening of the 9/11 Memorial Glade. The Glade honors all 9/11 responders, survivors, and community members who are sick or have died from exposure to toxins in the aftermath of 9/11. The Glade also recognizes the courage, selflessness and perseverance of the men and women of the rescue and recovery effort. “Like the heroes we lost on 9/11, their selfless acts provided light that helped guide us through our darkest hours and they allowed our city to rise again,” said former NYC Mayor Michael Bloomberg.
June is Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, and VOICES continues to make efforts to promote this important cause. About half of those who responded to, survived, or lost loved ones on 9/11 have PTSD. Because it is classified as an anxiety disorder, PTSD is entirely treatable. It is often early detection and increased awareness about the disorder that can help those suffering seek successful treatment as soon as possible. PTSD is often misunderstood by those with no firsthand experience, and here at VOICES we encourage an open dialogue.