“Its called mesothelioma.” he said.
“How long do I have to live, doc?” Vincent smirked.
“Six to twelve months tops.”
How Can That Be?
Vincent sat still for a minute. “What?”
“Vincent, what’s your occupation?”
“New York City firefighter.”
“Did you work 9/11?” The doctor picked up his notebook .
“Yeah I worked a couple weeks there looking for survivors.”
The Station Doctor Told Me It Was Just Stress
The doctor paused. “Mesothelioma is a form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. As you may know, the collapse of the towers released a considerable amount of asbestos dust.”
“I didn’t know that.”
The doctor continued. “Assuming you haven’t been exposed before, the mesothelioma in your lungs and stomach may have developed as a result of 9/11.”
“Ok, but it can be treated, right doc?”
“I’m afraid it’s spread too far. Frankly, I’m surprised you didn’t notice the symptoms sooner.”
“But doc, I did. The station doctor told me it was just stress.”
The doctor started writing again. “That is a shame. I am very sorry you did not come to Mount Sinai earlier. We might have been able to treat it.”
“Is there nothing you can do for me, doc, I have 3 small kids at home!”
“You might want to pursue your legal options.” The doctor stood up and extended his hand. “Let’s talk again Monday and see what we can do to ease your physical pain as the disease progresses.”
I Can Give You A Day Off But That’s It
“Vincent, what’s up with you? You’re pale as a sheet. Sit down.”
“Boss, I just came back from the doctor.”
“Oh, you got that stress, right? Hey we all got it, kid. I can give you a day off but that’s it. Everybody’s got the flu.”
“Thanks boss, but its more than that, I’ve got that asbestos cancer.”
“Who says so!” Boss stood up.
“This doctor at Mount Sinai ran some tests, I just talked to him.”
“Don’t believe those fancy doctors at Sinai, get a second opinion. Didn’t our doc already tell you its stress?” Boss’ radio sounded. “I gotta take this kid. You can take off tomorrow for your stress but you know I can’t let you go on Mischief Night.”
