Some Kids Left Behind: A Survivor's Fight for Health Care in the Wake of 9/11

Lila Nordstrom, a high school senior who witnessed the 9/11 Twin Towers collapse, created StuyHealth to advocate for her classmate's health care after they were poisoned by toxic air. Her memoir reveals how tragedy exposes the American health care system's flaws and how corruption and misinformation fail victims of disasters. It also provides a guide to advocating for oneself and one's community and supporting a cause.

Format: Hardback
Length: 360 pages
Publication date: 24 August 2021
Publisher: Apollo Publishers

On the 20th anniversary of 9/11, an inspiring account emerges of the schoolchildren poisoned by the toxic air left in the wake of the Twin Towers destruction, and the survivor who fought tirelessly for their healthcare in front of Congress and against all odds.

On September 11, 2001, high school senior Lila Nordstrom witnessed the devastating collapse of the Twin Towers, just a few blocks away from her school. Despite concerns raised by local officials and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Lila and her 3,000 classmates were allowed to return to their school weeks later, despite the air being thick with toxic debris, dust, and smoke.

In this remarkable and empowering memoir, Lila shares how the illnesses and deaths of her classmates were linked to the effects of the 9/11 cleanup. This prompted her to take action and create StuyHealth, an organization dedicated to advocating for the health and well-being of her survivor community. Lila also became involved in the fight for the Victim Compensation Fund, working alongside first responders, celebrities, and political leaders to raise awareness about the needs of her community and the importance of providing them with mental and physical health care.

Through her unwavering determination and resilience, Lila proved that her voice deserved to be heard, and she successfully advocated for her community's rights. This timely tale sheds light on the flaws of the American healthcare system and the ongoing challenges faced by victims of tragedies. It serves as an honest and humorous guide to advocating for oneself and one's community, navigating the complex world of legislation and healthcare. Lila's story urges us to consider how we as a nation treat vulnerable communities and how all victims of disasters, regardless of their circumstances, deserve care, truth, and respect.

In addition to her personal journey, the book includes a section that explores the meaning of advocacy work, what it means to be an active citizen, and how to support causes that align with one's values. It provides valuable insights and practical tips for those who wish to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond.

As we reflect on the 20th anniversary of 9/11, Lila's story reminds us of the power of resilience, advocacy, and the unwavering determination to fight for what is right. It serves as a testament to the human spirit and the importance of coming together to support those in need.

Weight: 588g
Dimension: 163 x 235 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781948062626