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January 13, 2006 |
Dear Families and Friends, This Monday we will commemorate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., an individual whose vision continues to inspire us all. In honor of the holiday, I would like to share a quote of his from which I personally draw great inspiration: “If you lose hope, somehow you lose the vitality that keeps life moving, you lose that courage to be, that quality that helps you go on in spite of it all.” - Martin Luther King, Jr. It is customary at this time of year to make resolutions for the New Year. In this week’s e-Newsletter, VOICES Director of Family Programs, Dr. Robin Goodman offers some excellent advice on making—and keeping—resolutions for 2006. In this spirit, I would like to make a resolution on behalf of VOICES. In the coming year, we will continue to support all those affected by 9/11 and reach out to other victims of terrorism. We will continue to work to make this world safe from the threat of meaningless violence, and assist those who work tirelessly to achieve these goals. The recent death of NYPD Detective James Zadroga is a painful reminder that the devastating effects of 9/11 are still being felt today. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends, especially his young daughter, Tylerann. We realize the death of Detective Zadroga can have far reaching effects and we want to remind you that VOICES provides counseling, resources, and referrals for all who face ongoing mental and physical trauma from their heroic sacrifices at Ground Zero. As always, feel free to contact us if we can be of any assistance. However, please note that VOICES office will be closed this Monday in observance of Dr. King’s Birthday. Warm Regards,
NYPD HERO FALLS TO WTC ILLNESS
Mr. Paladino, quoted in a New York Times article, said Detective Zadroga is the first NYPD rescue and recovery worker to die from illness caused by service at Ground Zero. However, many officers and emergency medical technicians have retired from active duty because of 9/11-related chronic health conditions. 9/11 survivors and witnesses as well as Downtown Manhattan residents are also at risk for illness caused by breathing dangerous airborne particles. A recent Channel 7 Eyewitness News segment further investigates the growing threat of "World Trade Center Cough." The Sierra Club, an environmental advocacy group, has produced a television documentary entitled "9/11 Forgotten Heroes," that highlights the ongoing health problems faced by WTC recovery workers. The documentary, which premiered yesterday on cable, is available in streaming video (the program Quicktime is required) on the Sierra Club website. DVD copies are also available by request. If you think you may be suffering from a condition related to the 9/11 attacks or the rescue and recovery mission, there are health service providers dedicated to helping you. Please contact VOICES at
RESOLUTIONS By Robin F. Goodman, Ph.D.
There is often much hope and optimism at the start of a new year. Many people are fueled by relief that the hectic holidays are over. Life becomes more routine and predictable again. Tearing off the last page of an old calendar and turning to the first page on a new one provides people with the chance to make a fresh start. But some people look back and get bogged down by the piles of things half done or undone and feel more overwhelmed and defeated. Reflecting on the past and looking towards the future has become quite common and can be helpful. This often results in making resolutions. Although making resolutions is commonplace, carrying them out is less common. Soon into the New Year, people are faced with the pressure (or guilt) about keeping their promises. There are things you can do to be more successful with your resolutions. The following thoughts might help you get started and finish. Click here for the article...
selected VOICES MEMBERS ASKED TO PARTICIPATE IN RED CROSS SURVEY The American Red Cross has asked us to distribute a survey to some VOICES members receiving our mental health services. This week, VOICES is mailing letters with instructions on completing the survey to randomly selected members. Detailed instructions to complete the survey on the phone or on the internet will be provided in the letters. The Red Cross designed the survey to learn more about how to improve their current and future services that assist individuals after large-scale disasters. Your participation is voluntary, but encouraged. Those selected to receive letters are asked to call VOICES at (203) 966-3911 or toll-free at (866) 505-3911 if you have any questions or concerns. This survey is very important and we at VOICES will greatly appreciate your taking the time to respond.
DHS introduces NEW PREPAREDNESS DIRECTORATE This month the Department of Homeland Security introduced its new Preparedness Directorate, designed to coordinate effective federal preparedness for terrorist attacks and natural disasters. Last month the Senate confirmed George Foresman (click for biography) to head the new Directorate. Before his appointment, Foresman was assistant to the governor of Virginia for emergency and disaster preparedness, and brings to the job more than 20 years of experience in emergency management from operations to executive level leadership. For more information on preparedness measures you can take for your family and community, visit DHS’ Ready.gov website, or VOICES Preparedness Homepage, which offers tips and resources for personal, family, and community preparedness.
Discord Over 9/11 Memorial's Symbolism -- New York Times WTC reporter David W. Dunlap explores how the design of the WTC Memorial has changed over the years from its original conception. Officials Reverse Stream on Waterfalls -- Gretchen Dykstra, WTC Memorial Foundation president, said Tuesday that the waterfalls in the memorial design by Michael Arad and Peter Walker would run during the winter. (Downtown Express)
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