9/11 Cancer Cases Continue to Rise as Unsung Heroes Seek Justice and Support

When two planes struck the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001, New York City descended into chaos. Amid the devastation, everyday New Yorkers stepped forward to help. Among them was livery cab driver Jeffrey Wolkin, who risked his own safety to keep downtown workers out of harm’s way.

On that day, Wolkin ferried passengers in and out of lower Manhattan three separate times. Over the next 10 months, he logged more than 223 hours shuttling clients below Houston Street. His commitment made him one of the many unsung heroes who helped keep the city moving in its darkest hour.

Now, more than two decades later, Wolkin is paying a heavy price for his service. At age 65, the Whitestone resident has been diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer that has spread to his liver. It’s his second battle with stage 4 cancer — and doctors have given him only a 3% chance of survival.

Much attention has rightly been focused on firefighters, police officers, and first responders whose exposure to toxic dust has led to a surge in cancer and respiratory illnesses. Yet less visible groups like cab drivers, livery drivers, and commuter van operators are often overlooked.

“People like cab drivers are completely underrepresented in the 9/11 illness victims program,” explained Patrick Rheaume of Barasch & McGarry, noting that independent drivers often lack union or institutional support. Proving eligibility can be especially difficult for workers who operated alone, like Wolkin.

The toxic air that lingered after the towers fell exposed anyone in Lower Manhattan, and not just first responders. For drivers who made countless trips in and out of the disaster zone, the risks were enormous. Unfortunately, many still have not applied for help through the available federal programs.

Wolkin’s health battle has been devastating. His son Joseph recalled the shocking transformation when his father was hospitalized. Doctors discovered a tumor “the size of a golf ball” that required emergency surgery. Wolkin was left unable to speak for weeks, communicating only by text until he learned to talk again.

The once-active cabbie has lost 70 pounds, dropping to just 100 pounds on his five-foot-six frame. Chemotherapy has taken its toll, weakening his voice and leaving him in constant pain. Yet despite the suffering, Wolkin remains defiant. “I’m weak,” he admitted between coughs. “But I’m not ready to die.”

Friends and fellow drivers continue to encourage him, sending fishing gear to keep his spirits up — reminders of the hobby he has not been able to enjoy for more than a year.

Through the work of his attorney, Jason Weisfuse of Weisfuse & Weisfuse, LLP, Wolkin has been able to qualify for both the 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund (VCF) and the World Trade Center Health Program. These programs provide medical treatment, financial support, and tax-free compensation for individuals diagnosed with 9/11-related illnesses.

The New York City Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) acknowledges that drivers like Wolkin played an essential role after the attacks. More than 1,000 volunteered to give free rides to families of victims and first responders at Ground Zero. Yet many have not received the assistance they deserve.

“We refer any driver who believes their health may have been affected to the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund and the WTC Health Program,” TLC Press Secretary Jason Kersten said.

For survivors and responders, navigating the claims process can be overwhelming. Strict deadlines, documentation requirements, and medical records make it difficult to qualify without experienced guidance. This is where a 9/11 VCF lawyer can provide critical support.

An attorney experienced in these claims can:

• Confirm whether your illness is covered by the VCF
• Gather employment, residency, or licensing records to prove presence in Lower Manhattan
• Collect medical evidence that connects your condition to 9/11 exposure
• File your claim on time and ensure no eligible benefits are overlooked
• Maximize your compensation for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering

Jason Weisfuse and his team at Weisfuse & Weisfuse, LLP have represented many 9/11 survivors, responders, and their families. Their dedication ensures that heroes like Jeffrey Wolkin — and countless others still battling 9/11-related illnesses — can access the financial relief and healthcare they urgently need.

If you or a loved one lived, worked, or spent time in Lower Manhattan after the attacks and have since been diagnosed with cancer or another serious illness, do not wait to seek help. Contact a 9/11 VCF lawyer to explore your eligibility and secure the benefits you deserve.