The aftermath of the 9/11 attacks has left a lasting impact on many, including an unexpected rise in breast cancer among people who were exposed to the toxic debris. Breast cancer diagnoses have brought unexpected challenges to many lives, including medical debt, chronic pain, and a loss of quality of life. However, 9/11 survivors who were later diagnosed with this disease are eligible for benefits through the Victim Compensation Fund (VCF).
If you need help navigating your VCF claim, trust Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC to be your advocate. We combine a deep understanding of the application process with a tailored and compassionate legal approach, all to recover a fair compensation package. Contact us today and learn how we can provide the support and peace of mind you need during this challenging time.
9/11 Breast Cancer Resources
To immediately access the resources at any point on this page, click the corresponding links below.
Why Choose Our 9/11 Breast Cancer Lawyer?
Connections Between Breast Cancer & 9/11 Toxins
Legal Recourse for 9/11 Victims Suffering From Breast Cancer
Qualifications for Compensation for 9/11-Linked Breast Cancer
Breast Cancer Symptoms to Be Aware Of
How Much Time Is There to Submit a Claim?
Speak to a Lawyer Today
Why Choose Our 9/11 Breast Cancer Lawyer?
- Our firm specializes in representing people who were exposed to toxic substances, including the 9/11 dust cloud. With over 20 years of experience and thousands of clients served, we are equipped to advocate for your recovery.
- Our 9/11 Victim Compensation Fund lawyer is dedicated to recovering maximum compensation for our clients. We will not rest until you secure the benefits that you are entitled to receive under the law.
- Your recovery is our firm’s top priority. In addition to legal guidance, we will provide you with the emotional support and compassion that you need to navigate your 9/11 breast cancer claim with confidence.
The Connection Between Breast Cancer and 9/11 Toxins
The tragic events of September 11th led to the release of numerous contaminants and carcinogens into the environment, following the collapse of the Twin Towers and several adjacent buildings. Among the toxic substances that were released, 70 deadly carcinogens were identified, which transformed into harmful fumes, smoke, vapors, particles, and ash.
These toxins persisted in the air during the eight-month cleanup and removal efforts and were inhaled by the residents, workers, first responders, and other individuals who were in the area during this time. In the years following the attacks, these people have suffered serious health conditions, including breast cancer along with over 70 different types of cancers.
What Legal Recourse Is There for Victims of 9/11 That Suffer from Breast Cancer?
Victims of 9/11 who suffer from breast cancer have legal avenues for recourse under the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010. This legislation established two critical programs: The World Trade Center Health Program (WTCHP), which offers nationwide medical care at no cost, and the VCF which provides monetary compensation for lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
As of 2023, breast cancer is one of the many types of cancers listed as eligible conditions under these programs. Because breast cancer can take years to develop and may not manifest for a long time following the attacks, the U.S. government passed the Never Forget the Heroes Act in 2019. This law provides full funding and establishes a permanent extension of the VCF, ensuring compensation for all current and future illnesses related to 9/11.
Qualifications for Compensation for 9/11-Linked Breast Cancer
If you have been diagnosed with breast cancer and believe that it is linked to the 9/11 attacks, you will need to follow a careful process to recover compensation. First, you must have your breast cancer diagnosis certified by the WTCHP. This certification is a crucial step in the process; you cannot proceed with the VCF claim if your condition is not certified.
Next, you will need to register with the VCF before the deadline, which varies based on the type of claim that you intend to file. Finally, you must submit the claim by October 1, 2090, which is when the VCF program closes.
As part of your claim, you must prove that you were present at one of the attack sites, within the New York City Exposure Zone, or along the debris removal routes at some point between September 11, 2001, and May 30, 2002. You can leverage several pieces of evidence to prove your presence, such as employment records, residency documents, and witness affidavits.
Common Breast Cancer Symptoms to Be Aware of
Breast cancer can cause several key symptoms, which can take years to develop and affect both men and women. If you were exposed to 9/11 toxins, it is important to be aware of these warning signs and seek medical care as soon as possible if you notice any concerning symptoms.
The most common symptom is the appearance of a new lump or mass in the breast, but not all lumps are cancerous. If the mass is painless, hard, and has irregular edges, it is more likely to be cancer. However, breast cancer lumps can also be soft, round, tender, or painful, so it is always best to receive a medical evaluation to determine whether the mass is benign.
Other symptoms to be aware of include:
- Changes in the size or shape of the breast
- Skin dimpling on the breast
- Breast or nipple pain
- Changes in the nipple or breast skin
- Nipple discharge
- Swollen lymph nodes under the arm or near the collarbone
How Much Time Is There to Submit a Claim?
After a breast cancer diagnosis, it is important to act quickly to secure your right to VCF benefits. The deadline to apply for compensation is two years from the date that your cancer is certified by the WTCHP as 9/11-related. For families of those who passed away from a WTC-linked condition, the two-year registration period begins from the date of the victim’s death or the date on which the VCF verifies that the condition is 9/11-related.
Navigating the VCF application can be complex, requiring extensive documentation and evidence. The 9/11 breast cancer lawyer at Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC can guide you through the process and ensure that all paperwork is completed accurately, presenting the best possible case for compensation.
Speak With Our Experienced 9/11 Breast Cancer Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer as a result of exposure to the tragic events of 9/11, Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC can help you fight for fair compensation. Our attorney understands the unique challenges faced by 9/11 victims and will not rest until you receive the care that you deserve.
Do you need help navigating your VCF claim? Call us today at (800) 220-0984 for a free, confidential legal consultation with a 9/11 breast cancer attorney.