Did you know that cancer is the leading cause of death for firefighters?
A New York City firefighter who responded to the World Trade Center on 9/11 thought he was advocating for his colleagues and their health, but he recently received an unfortunate diagnosis himself.
Retired FDNY Secretary Richard Ares lives a healthy lifestyle and is an avid runner. On September 11, 2001, he responded to the World Trade Center.
“I think we all have a ticking time bomb. The question is not if, but when,” Ares told NBC6.
He has been advocating for his colleagues and federal funding for 9/11 illnesses, and just recently received an unfortunate diagnosis.
“I swore an oath to protect the citizens of my city, or all of America, and I have no regrets about that,” he said.
Ares hasn't looked back, but like many first responders, he was severely exposed to a toxic mix of dust and chemicals at Ground Zero. 343 FDNY responders were killed that day, and since then, more responders have died from 9/11 illnesses than from the events of that fateful day. Ares was diagnosed with skin cancer and recently with prostate cancer.
“It's all about early detection, early treatment. That's why my cancer was caught so early,” he said.
January is Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month, and that's what Ares continues to preach. In 2023, the International Association of Firefighters reported that 72% of those killed in the line of duty were due to cancer.
Locally, Miami-Dade Fire and Rescue here says they are taking precautions to reduce exposure to toxins, from two sets of bunker gear to training on exposure risks.
The University of Miami's Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is collaborating with departments on initiatives aimed at reducing risks to first responders. We also provide mobile units to monitor firefighters at fire stations.
Broward Sheriff Fire and Rescue has put several items and processes in place to reduce the risk, but says there is no silver bullet.
A department chief told NBC6 that Broward Fire Rescue has received 17 diagnoses in the past 10 years.
For Ares, he continues the crusade that first took him to Ground Zero, saving lives while now fighting to save his own.
“Firefighters are very good at taking care of others, but they're not very good at taking care of themselves,” he said.
He urged firefighters to get tested because there is a difference between feeling “okay” and being “okay.”
