On the 24th anniversary of the September 11 attacks, Fox News correspondent Eric Shawn reported live from Lower Manhattan on “Fox & Friends,” where survivors, families, first responders, and officials gathered to honor nearly 3,000 lives lost.
(Photo by Michael Loccisano/Getty Images)During the broadcast, Shawn revealed he is battling 9/11-related cancer. “I have two different diagnoses under the World Trade Center Program,” he said, as per a Fox News report, referencing the federal initiative that provides monitoring and treatment for those affected in New York, at the Pentagon, and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.
Reflecting on the Tragedy 24 Years Later
(Photo by Chris Hondros/Getty Images)“It is hard to believe that it has been nearly a quarter of a century since that day, when radical Islamic terrorism attacked the very heart of our city and our country,” Shawn said.
“It is a philosophy that basically hates our principles, our freedoms, what our nation stands for. That has not diminished — and today, again, we all gather here to remember what was lost.”
Shawn emphasized the ongoing impact: “While 2,977 people were murdered here that day, the number who have died from 9/11-related illnesses has increased from the toxic dust that was released.”
Health Toll From the Attacks
(Photo by Alex Wong/Getty Images)According to the CDC, 48,000 people have reported 9/11-related cancers, with nearly 10,000 new cases in the past year. More than 3,700 first responders have died since the attacks, including 2,300 who had cancer. The Fire Department of New York has lost 409 members to post-9/11 illnesses.
Shawn described his own battle as deeply personal. He suffers from respiratory issues and cancer directly linked to the attacks. “I think of all those who were killed that day and those who continue to suffer because of that philosophy — that is not diminished,” he said. “We have to condemn it. We have to despise it. You will never forget.”
Remembering & Moving Forward Together
Shawn stressed that exposure was not limited to first responders. “If you were below Canal Street, basically, you were exposed to the dust. I was here reporting on it. That’s what happened with me. I mean, I’m very, very lucky. I think of all those who are suffering much greater … I’ve lost a few friends from this, of course.”
He reflected on the delayed onset of his health issues. “Back then, I remember thinking, maybe in 20, 30 years later I’ll get something. Well, here it is, 24 years.”
Shawn concluded with a message of solidarity: “We’re all in this together. I mean, we are. We are all in it together.”
