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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

EndNotes

Three 9/11 heroes die on same day

In this Monday, Sept. 8, 2014 photo, the Tribute in Light rises behind buildings adjacent to the World Trade Center in New York. The art installation consists of 88 searchlights aiming skyward in two columns, in memory of the former twin towers. Four World Trade Center is at left. Thirteen years after 9/11 forever changed the New York skyline, officials say developments at the World Trade Center are on track and on budget. (Mark Lennihan / Associated Press)
In this Monday, Sept. 8, 2014 photo, the Tribute in Light rises behind buildings adjacent to the World Trade Center in New York. The art installation consists of 88 searchlights aiming skyward in two columns, in memory of the former twin towers. Four World Trade Center is at left. Thirteen years after 9/11 forever changed the New York skyline, officials say developments at the World Trade Center are on track and on budget. (Mark Lennihan / Associated Press)

Three retired firefighters who rushed in to assist people when the World Trade Center was hit by terrorists, died on the same day – all from cancer.

In the years since the attacks, many first responders have suffered from respiratory illness. Many have died from cancer. Health experts assert that the toxic dust from that day – and the months after – may contribute to the illness so prevalent among those who worked at ground zero.

The men, Lt. Howard Bischoff, 58, and firefighters Robert Leaver, 56, and Daniel Heglund, 58, died within hours of each other earlier this week.

America remains grateful to these men for their unrelenting commitment of service.

(S-R photo: The Tribute in Light rises behind buildings adjacent to the World Trade Center in New York. )



Spokesman-Review features writer Rebecca Nappi, along with writer Catherine Johnston of Olympia, Wash., discuss here issues facing aging boomers, seniors and those experiencing serious illness, dying, death and other forms of loss.