Connecting At The VOICES Forum Helped To Heal The Hole In Our Hearts Just a small note of appreciation to Mary and all at VOICES who present and host the annual conference in Manhattan on September 10th at the Marriott. My wife, Kathleen, and I have attended the conference since its inception, and we anxiously look forward to attending again this year.
Our daughter, Andrea, was murdered with so many others that fateful day. Andrea lived in Illinois, but grew up where we live in Wisconsin. She knew no one in New York, nor did we. Early on in this shared journey of all of ours, Kathy and I felt very isolated - being so far away from New York and getting information either late or not at all. Throughout these years, the VOICES conference has allowed my wife and I to connect with many other families, who like us were desperately seeking information.
When we attended the first VOICES conference, we did not know what to expect; however what we found was a healing connection that needed no words. It was the first time we did not have to explain how we felt to people! I remember what a relief that was. We all were in the same situation. Many of the families we have met through VOICES are now good friends of ours.
The conferences and the informed relevant speakers at the various forums have provided us with relevant and accurate information. The question and answer forums have provided important information and perspectives we had not even thought about.
Together, in one place, we found what we had most needed - current, accurate answers to questions foremost in our minds - whether that be from Medical Examiner office updates, the 9/11 Commission member speakers, up to last year's presentation on what to expect in the recently opened museum. As I review in my memory the forums presented and the relevant topics presented through the years, the list seems endless.
Equally as important, we have been connected with people who have helped heal the hole in our hearts. Always at the conference are those who understand and assist in soothing that wound. As we journey back to Wisconsin, albeit with heavy hearts, it is comforting to know that the VOICES organization and Mary and her staff are just a phone call away with answers, information and kind words.
Thank you...we look forward to seeing you in September!
Voices of September 11th will host the 13th Annual Day of Remembrance Information Forum on Wednesday, September 10th. Once again it will be held at the Downtown Marriott Hotel at 85 West Street in New York City. The day-long conference includes panel discussions, presentations and workshops relevant to all those impacted by 9/11. Subject matter experts will discuss topics such as the World Trade Center Health Program, the Zadroga legislation, promoting resiliency and mental health treatment for complicated grief and PTSD. 9/11 families, responders, survivors and service providers are encouraged to attend. For a detailed schedule, and to register online visit voicesofseptember11.org. 
