Firefighters' Media

Historical Image Gallery

Since the advent of 9/11, global campaigns drove the "NEVER FORGET" mantra that defined the voice of our post-attack era. This mission of public awareness covered headlines from political, social, educational and news platforms. For this crusade to capture the minds of the global witness, messengers used FILM, VIDEO and PHOTOGRAPHY to spread the thousand-words cemented by history and shared with lightning speed throughout today's digital audiences.

The First Responders Cancer Resource (formerly 9/11 CancerScan) published countless feature articles on prevention, early detection and reports about occupational health disorders within the fire service- in response to the rising cases of cancer from the WTC attacks. Thanks to the historical archives of the 9/11 World Trade Center Memorial and Museum, we gained exclusive access to some of the most remarkable works by photographers like KEVIN COUGHLIN (Pulitzer Prize-sharing photojournalist), ROBERTO RABANNE and ANDREA BOOHRER- whose timeless photographs continue to grace the many pages of 9/11 related historical presentations. These images greatly fostered first hand experiences of the rescue service community during that time.

"History is Eternal": NY FD Archivist Chief Bob Checco
Looking back at the massive collection of photos in his personal vault, Chief Bob Checco assembled this priceless treasure trove of experiences, stories and photographic portraits about many of the retired firefighters of New York in one globally-accessible set of galleries (see: www.FDPixGallery.com). Thanks to his remarkable memory for the many names and faces in this tremendous collection of never-before-published photos, we can finally enjoy coursing through the generations of FD history as far back as his 'probie' years when he snapped that first shot in 1958. This is Chief Checco's gift to the surviving members of the FDNY and their families

2021 Collection: Fire Service Documentarians
Thanks to a recent partnership between NYCRANEWS.com and F.A.C.E.S. (Firefighters Against Cancer & Exposures), we are working to establish a national gallery to honor the works of photo and film documentarians of rescue calls and disasters for their talents, courage and unending support of our responders in action. These unsung photo correspondents provide the global audience with front line access and an their unique perspective with each shot. Their priceless work spans a wide set of applications including educational training, technical tours, records of fire events and news footage and clips for social media publishing.

Many are part of the fire service, capturing dramatic visual records of each fire call, while others. In our updated feature, we will be showcasing the works of our first recent "firefighter lensman" Mr. BEN SALADINO (in house documentarian of the Bedford Fire Dept. in Bedford, TX).

"As long as I can remember, I’ve been fascinated with the fire service. I suspect some of that comes from watching the TV show, Emergency! when I was growing up. I also love bicycling, and ended up working in the bicycle industry instead of the fire service. However, since my teenage years, I’ve listened to first responders on radio scanners. Somewhere along the way, I got into photography, and started photographing fire apparatus. I started my website D/FW Fire Equipment News to share my photos and information about new fire apparatus in the area. Eventually, I managed to form some good relationships with the local fire departments and was granted access to fire scenes to photograph. I’ve truly enjoyed the opportunities in recent years to help document the work of first responders, especially in the fire service. I realize that many events I photograph are very tragic for the victims and first responders, but I hope that good may still come from my photos for training, history, public education, and more."

THE DIGITAL MESSAGE GOES GLOBAL
Gone are the days when fighting cancer is about CHEMO AND RADIATION. There is "no one answer to cancer" and every single person must be assessed and treated uniquely from anyone else. This means giving access to the treasure trove of information that, at one time, was only available to a select few. Thanks to the inter-web, patients, survivors and families all have the same optimal access to solutions, survivor stories, testimonials and reviews, allowing us all to make the right decisions - or ones that suits our needs.

CANCER CARE IS NOT A "ONE-SIZE FITS ALL" PROBLEM
According the the CDC, studies with Firefighters show a greater number of cancer diagnoses and cancer-related deaths. These were mostly digestive, oral, respiratory, and urinary cancers. There were about twice as many fire fighters with malignant mesothelioma, a rare type of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Exposure to asbestos while fire fighting is the most likely explanation for this. There were more cases of certain cancers among younger fire fighters. For example, fire fighters in our study who were under 65 years of age had more bladder and prostate cancers than expected. When comparing firefighters in a study with each other, the chance of lung cancer diagnosis or death increased with amount of time spent at fires. The chance of leukemia death increased with the number of fire runs.Leading the global front of this helping hand means searching for all available RESOURCES. FACES bands together as a community to form a solid support resource system between all cancer organizations and firefighter support groups. (Source: CDC.GOV/niosh)

In the early 1900's, identifying cancer meant certain death. This brought the medical and non-medical people together to help establish the beginnings of what is to become a world-wide mission to battle and elimintate cancers and other devastating illnesses. Some of the most remarkable organizations have formed such as the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (1949) and the American Cancer Society (1913) who worked tirelessly in their crusade by assembling fundraisers, perform outreach projects and conduct educational programs-- all in the name of finding help for the many victims while funding the continuance of medical research for advanced treatment options. In recent years, cancer mortality has successfully shown a consistent decline due to the effectiveness of modern treatments and advanced methodologies. Where strongly funded and well-supported sciences are gaining significant technological advantage over what was once a vastly unknown disease, the rate of survivors are measuring well above the stats from years prior. But the fight is far from over.

Richard Marrone & the 9/11 Cancer Resource Group
Richard Marrone is a career veteran with the NY Fire Department, an active FDNY Paramedic trainer and a first responder at 9/11-- his interest and personal insight to the concerns of ALL responders led to deeper exchange with the cancer imaging directors and soon became the establishment of a major public health outreach project and support network called the 911CancerScan program. (See Full Article)

THE 9/11 CANCERSCAN PROGRAM -
provides diagnostic options targeting the most common health issues recorded from 9/11 exposure. Use of advanced sonogram technology out-performs MRI’s, X-Rays and CT-Scans and is a safe, non-invasive and radiation-free option to accurately gather real-time images of the inside of the body. It is used to find anomalies and help diagnose any injuries, tumors, cysts and infection while allowing the diagnostician the ability to zoom and ‘travel’ deep into the body for maximum exploration.

SCAN 1: For all new patients, it is recommended to start with a diagnostic imaging exam of the patient’s LUNGS, BLADDER, THYROID and LIVER to seek out any significant cysts and tumors. These are the more common organs that would show any telltale signs of any further issues in the body.

PROSTATE: The CDC has recorded Prostate Cancer as the second largest number of cancer cases in first responders. We offer a comprehensive prostate scan using advanced doppler technology to monitor and identify any cancerous issues that may pre-exist.

ADVANCED LUNG STUDY: Airborne toxins and carcinogens make their way throughout the body starting with the lungs. A more in-depth look at this area helps us identify any infections past or present from scarring or early stages of growths in the nearby airways. This can also be used as a preventative or early-detection procedure for possible future cases of Lung Cancer.

FULL SKIN DIAGNOSTICS: The CDC rated non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) as the most common tumor in 9/11 cases. Skin cancer rates are continuing to rise and the most deadly form (melanoma) may be ruled out by 3D Doppler histogram imaging and advanced optical diagnostics.

PREVENTION & DETECTION PROGRAM:
CANCER DIAGNOSTICS PROGRAM FOR FIRST RESPONDERS & SURVIVORS

Historical reports show significant cancer claims from emergency rescue units- especially FIREFIGHTERS. Where prior diagnoses may not identify dormant cancer strains, this program is attuned to search for and recognize markers from a thorough and comprehensive review with the use of advanced Histogram Analysis technology. Dr. Bard's program is also available for pinpointing a more accurate 'second view' of the behavior of pre-existing 9/11-related cancer cases (thyroid, kidney, prostate, lung, pancreatic, leukemia & multiple myeloma, etc.) and can recommend solutions that may confirm or invalidate prior reviews. Also, the BCD program is designed to providing a detailed analysis of many tumors, cysts or premalignant lesions that is complementary to most recognized biopsy reports without the invasive surgical procedure!

Another effective "weapon" in the battle against this epidemic is the Bard Cancer Diagnostic Program: From Advanced Cancer Scanning to the Non-Invasive "Digital Biopsy". Once the patient has been certified (and validated) by the WTC Health Program, individuals suffering from 9/11 related illnesses can receive VCF Compensation and reimbursements for their medical treatment. Patients now have their own choice of health professionals and the option to pursue recently available advanced medical care.

Dr. Robert Bard, expert Cancer diagnostician and the Northeast’s expert in 4D Doppler Imaging has developed the POST 9/11 CANCER DIAGNOSTICS PROGRAM. His NYC-based facilities (Bard Cancer Diagnostic Imaging) are equipped with only the most advanced state-of-the-art technologies that often out-performs higher-priced MRI’s, CT-Scan’s and X-Rays while promising to deliver more affordable and accurate reports in REAL-TIME from a process that's ready in MINUTES. BCD is prepared to provide any 9/11 first responder or survivor with advanced cancer screenings to search for impending cancers. Pre-cancerous symptoms that may arise as per the rising reported numbers of post-9/11 cancer cases are evaluated quickly, accurately and painlessly.

BARD CANCER DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING(NYC) has isolated and scanned countless cases of cancers using the most advanced diagnostic imaging technologies worldwide. We provide early detection and real-time "digital biopsies" of many tumor types using 4D Doppler innovations bringing accuracy and expediency to the comprehensive report- within MINUTES. For our patients, this is a priceless advantage that cuts down the wait time, decreases travel (to multiple diagnostic centers) and reduces the insurmountable level of stress and intolerable problems of today’s increasing medical bureaucracy. Our technology outperforms the advantages of MRI, X-ray and CT scans by 20-to-1. We have an uncompromising system that’s unique to the health care profession whereby our combined experience and technical advancements are called upon by many university hospitals and private practices today. My services were recently utilized during the terror attack in Nice by the truck driver who mowed down innocent civilians on the French Riviera where-x-ray and CT services were overwhelmed (I am a current member of the French Radiology Society-Societe Francaise de Radiologie since 1999)

9/11 NECK CANCER CASE
With the aid of 4D Doppler Technology, Dr. Bard can identify, detect and analyze many tumors from pre-malignant areas to advanced cancerous cases. The regular sonogram shows a malignant disorder (top) while the 4D scan (bottom) displays a mass filled with cancerous arteries and veins meaning this is highly aggressive requiring immediate attention.

9/11 MESOTHELIOMA CASE
Exposure to toxins may produce cancers in many organs. This patients chronic cough prompted a chest sonogram showing a pulmonary tumor that had produced malignant fluid partially collapsing the breathing volume but had not yet metastasized below the diaphragm. The liver, an early target of cancer seeding, was clearly seen to be untouched in the same sonogram study simply by moving the probe from the chest wall to the abdomen sparing our patient from extra testing and mental stress over the possible spread of disease.

9/11 CANCER SCARE-SAME PATIENT 6 MONTHS AFTER TREATMENT
Our mesothelioma patient (pictured above) had a minor injury and noticed a new lump under the small bruise. A 5 minute scan showed the discoloration was caused by minor blood vessel damage due to the underlying BENIGN fatty tumor.  Cysts and other non-malignant disorders can be distinguished from metastatic lymph nodes (glands) providing “real-time” relief of anxiety of cancer recurrence.

To compare the performance of the 4D ULTRASOUND SONOGRAM over MRI, XRAY and CT SCAN, this  comprehensive chart identifies the clear advantages of physician directed imaging and targeted diagnosis as compared with the routine radiographic tests. Specifically, a patient puts his finger on the lump or points out the area of pain to the sonogram specialist who then focuses on the region of concern.  The investigating physician will demonstrate the problem on the scan to the patient and ensure that both are in agreement that the primary disorder is in the cross-hairs of the 3D scan.  As the 4D (real-time 3D) is proceeding the diagnostic possibilities are discussed and alternative diagnostic imaging are mentioned. Diagnostic sonography is the FIRST EXAM used worldwide because it is the least invasive for the best solution to a patient’s problem. Since the test is interactive and performed in real-time, for example, we have the patient with the ankle “sprain” move the foot and see  the injured tendon separate further as it is stretched voluntarily confirming the diagnosis of a complete tear. Fractures underlying ligament trauma are concurrently detected.  For many trauma cases this technology determines whether our patient needs an ice pack for pain or a scalpel to repair the tendon rupture.  Similarly, with cancer patients, aggression can be determined and graphically seen by the patient within minutes.  Extent of disease can be staged quickly and treatment plans started immediately.  Patients, fearing the worst, are de-stressed somewhat by bad news delivered immediately with therapeutic options simultaneously provided.

If you may have been recently diagnosed or have realistic concerns about 9/11-related cancers, contact us immediately at 212.355.7017. We are available to discuss your options and work with your physician on the many ways that our advanced 4D Digital Diagnostic System for post 9/11 trauma or cancer cases can help you. We are ready to work with the current compensation benefits fund to get you the best noninvasive diagnostic testing and minimally invasive treatments available.

DR. ROBERT L. BARD - ADVANCED CANCER IMAGING SPECIALIST
Having paved the way for the study of various cancers both clinically and academically, Dr. Robert Bard co-founded the 9/11 Cancer Scan program to bring additional diagnostic support to all first responders from Ground Zero. His main practice in midtown, NYC (Bard Diagnostic Imaging- www.CancerScan.com) uses the latest in digital Imaging technology has been also used to help guide biopsies and in many cases, even replicate much of the same reports of a clinical invasive biopsy. Imaging solutions such as high-powered Sonograms, Spectral Doppler, sonofluoroscopy, 3D/4D Image Reconstruction and the Spectral Doppler are safe, noninvasive, and does not use ionizing radiation. It is used as a complement to find anomalies and help diagnose the causes of pain, swelling and infection in the body’s internal organs while allowing the diagnostician the ability to zoom and ‘travel’ deep into the body for maximum exploration.

DR. JESSE A. STOFF - INTEGRATIVE ONCOIMMUNOLOGIST
Dr. Stoff is a highly-credentialed medical expert studying all medical remedies in pursuit of resolving the most challenging health issues of our time. In many circles, he is recognized for his 35+ years of dedicated work in immunology and advanced clinical research in modern CANCER treatments. He has spoken worldwide in some of the most sought-after medical conferences about his experiences and analyses on the study of human disease. His integrative practice INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE OF NY, Westbury, NY) has been continually providing all patients with the many comprehensive clinical options and modalities available- including "ONCO-IMMUNOLOGY", the science of battling cancer cells and reversing pre-cancerous conditions through a complete prevention program that has earned him great success in this field.Dr. Stoff has treated and managed countless patients who were affected by 9/11-related disorders and continues both public awareness efforts and clinical research in supporing this community of victims.

DR. THOMAS O'BRIEN II - MEDICAL CANNABIS PRACTITIONER
After the Compassionate Care Act came into effect, Dr. Thomas O’Brien upgraded his family practice in NYC to include the use of medical marijuana (THC & CBD solutions) for his patients by being one of the first certified physicians in the State of New York allowed to prescribe regulated dosages of THC and CBD as needed. His use of this treatment solution includes patients with a wide range of disorders from chronic pain to cancer and tumors. Credentialed as a clinical nutritionist, getting certified to treat patients with cannabis products has become a logical next-step evolution and a positive addition to Dr. O’Brien’s tool box. His research with medical cannabis showed extensive clinical success and was also impressed by its nature-based solution to help a widening list of disorders without harmful side effects. (see complete article)

JESSICA A. GLYNN, LMSW, CPC, CEC - RESPONDERS MENTAL HEALTH PROGRAM
As a therapist and coach, a lot of my work with clients is helping to manage symptoms of anxiety and panic- that which manifests in physical, often frightening and alarming ways. We can experience things like racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, numbness in arms and legs which can all make us feel like we are out control of our bodies and our surrounding world. When we have experienced a traumatic event in our lives, these feelings can be even more severe and heightened. The trauma and residually related fear is one that is very close to my heart and a reason I can provide empathy and understanding to clients that have been affected by the horrific day. When we work to process physical emotions that arise from trauma, the hope is that one day we can be less affected by it and live more presently to enjoy life’s fulfilling moments. I work with clients to slowly pull apart the physical emotions we experience from the thoughts that we are having and process them in a more self-aware and grounded way., visit her website- www.jagtheracoach.com

DR. STEPHEN CHAGARES - CANCER SURGEON
Dr. Stephen Chagares is a NJ board-certified surgeon in Tinton Falls and a global pioneer in advanced robotic procedures. He is a major supporter of post-surgical health maintenance for all patients especially cancer survivors who underwent reconstructive surgeries. His commitment to the continued evolution of modern medicine supports the development of protocols to use advanced ultrasonic screening solutions for all mastectomy patients and implant users. "I am hoping Dr. Bard’s advanced ultrasonic screening becomes the foundation for development of future protocols for screening and diagnostic imaging for all breast implant patients. Hopefully, these protocols using this ultrasound technology can be incorporated with other breast implant safety programs to create the best medical care possible for all breast implant patients.” - (see complete feature article) For more about Dr. Chagares, visit his website- drchagares.com

DISCLAIMER | AWARENESS FOR A CURE | NY CANCER RESOURCE ALLIANCE