Cancer Center Healing and Sharing: A Tribute to our Fellow Citizens, Sept. 11, 2001

Date: December 1, 2002

The events of September 11, 2001, touched all of our lives in some way.  Our patients, clinicians, scientists, and staff, who work so passionately to preserve life, have struggled with the human toll this day brought.   While we are haunted by the visual images of national landmarks crumbling to the ground, my colleagues and I profoundly understand that buildings—no matter how celebrated—are but a vehicle for the accomplishments of the talented and dedicated people who work within them.

And so, on September 14, 2001, we joined together in a healing service in honor of those affected by the tragic events in New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania on September 11.  We reflected upon the events, shared our grief, and vowed our support to one another as we move forward.  We share with you some of the thoughts about this great and resilient nation. Martin D. Abeloff, M.D., DirectorSidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins

“America is the heart and mind of its people.”

 “America is my grandfather who came as a child to the gates of Ellis Island. When he looked up at the Statue of Liberty, he immediately knew the meaning of freedom.”

“America is being able to fulfill my dreams and ambitions without fear of oppression.”

 “America is EMTs, firemen, and policemen who unselfishly gave their own lives to save others.”

“Promise, hope, freedom, strength.We always overcome.”

“America is ordinary people coming together to overcome the events of September 11.”