After 9/11 I went down to NYC from Boston to volunteer at a firehouse near Ground Zero, and it changed my life. These firefighters were amazing. In spite of all they had suffered and lost, they continued to keep their humility, their sense of humor, and their great compassion towards all who came to their door.
I learned about their work - how difficult and stressful it was; their living conditions - which were abominable; and their longterm health problems, not only from working at Ground Zero, but from countless injuries which kept them in a state of chronic pain.
Faced with the increasing health needs of these first responders, I formed the Jessica Locke Firefighters Fund, a 501(c)3 organization whose mission statement provides for the continued treatment of firefighters suffering from toxic and hazardous conditions at Ground Zero. My recently released memoir, "Rescue at Engine 32" will be used as a fundraiser to provide alternative health care and financial support to firefighters in need. In addition, I advocate on behalf of firefighters whenever and wherever possible. Please see our website: www.firefightersfund.org
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