Help Bruce Hydock Fight for His 9-11 Benefits

Many of us will never forget where we were on September 11, 2001. While most were running from danger, others ran toward it to help—and Captain Bruce Hydock was one of them.

Bruce served with the New York City Fire Department for over 27 years. As a first responder on 9/11, he spent weeks working tirelessly at Ground Zero, breathing in toxic dust and fumes. Like many of his fellow responders, Bruce continues to live with the long-term consequences of that service.

Since then, Bruce has faced serious health challenges, including two cancer diagnoses—most recently, an aggressive form of kidney cancer directly linked to his 9/11 exposure. In 2007, he was also diagnosed with chronic lung conditions including COPD, RADS, and severe sleep apnea. Daily life requires constant medication, a rescue inhaler, steroids, and a CPAP machine to sleep safely. His breathing issues have ended his days of scuba diving, hiking, and long bike rides. Even walking up stairs or moving too quickly leaves him breathless.

Due to the progression of his chronic lung conditions, Bruce's oxygen saturation levels easily decline during the simple task of walking to his car. Bruce was placed on medical leave by his WTC pulmonologist and was unable to return to work after being on medical leave for a year. He applied for his 9/11 disability pension and has been fighting for the benefits he was told would be there for him. Forced into early retirement, with a partial pension, while the fight continues, Bruce has depleted all savings to cover his monthly expenses. Now faced with retaining an attorney to help continue the fight, he is in need of financial support to cover these expenses.

If you’re able to support Bruce—someone who has spent his life helping others—we invite you to contribute. Your kindness will help him continue the fight for the 9/11 benefits he deserves.