9/11 Survivors: Scars Remain 25 Years Later

Twenty-five years on from the September 11th terror attacks, survivors' personal scars persist, manifesting as PTSD, cancer from toxic debris, or the enduring grief of lost loved ones. Many have found ways to cope with their wounds, forever changed by what was taken.

Peter Bitwinski, present during both the 1993 and 2001 World Trade Center attacks, utilized lessons from the earlier bombing to help evacuate a coworker. His descent took over an hour amidst chaos and collapsing towers, leaving him with survivor's guilt and PTSD, which he now manages by sharing his story at the 9/11 Tribute Museum.

Karen Cangialosi lost her husband, Steven, who was at Cantor Fitzgerald. Though her sons have grown into successful adults, she misses him daily, reflecting on the challenges of raising them as a single mother and the resilience required over the past quarter-century.

EMT Carlos Garrafa worked tirelessly at Ground Zero, exposed to toxic dust that has since led to recurring cancer. He recounts the eerie quiet and the overwhelming dust, reflecting on his service with humility and recognizing the long-term health consequences faced by many first responders.

Fire Captain Charlie Roberto organized firefighter recalls and attended over 100 funerals for colleagues. He found solace and a way to process the trauma through nature, becoming involved in conservation efforts, emphasizing its healing power.