This year marks the 20th anniversary of September 11, 2001.  It is a date of heartbreak and tragedy and, if you’re of an age allowing you to remember it, it is a date that likely holds a specific spot in your memory.  We remember it because of deeds that are some of the worst of what humans can do.  In the days following, however, there were heroic deeds representing some of the best of what humans can do.

It was an honor to speak with a psychologist who decided to use her skills to bring healing to people at the epicenter of the destruction in New York City. Dr. Francine Toder is a psychologist, author, and a professor of psychology who lives in the San Francisco Bay area and who originally hails from New York.  As you will hear, she felt compelled to volunteer to provide her therapy skills wherever they could be used in the aftermath of 9/11 in her hometown. Her days were surreal, long, and deeply meaningful. Also, like many 9/11 first responders, Francine’s health took a huge hit years after her service when she was diagnosed with lung cancer. Fortunately, her health has been restored allowing her to share her gripping and important story.

So, join Francine and me as we talk about the experiences of a psychologist who was a first responder after 9/11.