Jeffrey Walkin was driving a taxi when the planes struck the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001.
The experienced driver sprang into action, eager to assist downtown workers in Manhattan. Today, he is one of many first responders suffering from cancer linked to the aftermath of that day.
“You remember the smell of death; you can’t shake it,” Walkin, now 65, shared from his home in Whitestone. “It lingers with you.”
At 41, Walkin was busy with fares, making three trips from Manhattan that fateful day. Over the next 10 months, he logged around 223 hours helping clients in the area.
Walkin represents the unsung heroes of that dark day—New Yorkers doing their part while grappling with the horrific effects of the toxic environment left behind.
However, experts suggest that many taxi drivers, unlike others who were similarly impacted, lack the support they so clearly need. “Taxi drivers are often overlooked,” noted Patrick Rheaume from a law firm that specializes in 9/11-related cases. “They may not have the backing of a union or a specific support system.”
It’s particularly challenging for taxi drivers to qualify for assistance, as they often work alone and face high standards for proof of their experiences.
Recently, Walkin was diagnosed with stage 4 esophageal cancer that has now spread to his liver. His prognosis is grim, with only a 3% chance of survival, marking his second battle with cancer.
“My father was one of the few taxi drivers on duty that day, and now he’s facing two stage 4 cancers,” his son, Joseph Walkin, said shortly before the 24th anniversary of the attacks that killed nearly 3,000 people.
Doctors identified a tumor “the size of a golf ball,” leading to an emergency tracheotomy. His son described the transformation: “He went from being an active man to being bedridden. It was shocking to see him unable to speak for weeks.”
Despite his struggles, Walkin doesn’t dwell on the toxic dust he encountered that day. “Back then, no one realized the danger—not the responders, not anyone,” he reflected.
“People say I sound different,” he admitted. His sudden weight loss—70 pounds down to just 100—has been particularly alarming for his 5-foot-6 frame.
“What hurts the most now is my touch. I’m just skin and bones,” Walkin expressed, openly acknowledging the discomfort that comes with his ongoing treatment.
“No one developed cancer immediately after 9/11,” he remarked. Fortunately, he qualifies for programs like the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund and the WTC Health Program, although many veteran drivers remain hesitant to seek help.
While concrete data on TLC-licensed drivers affected by 9/11 is scarce, it’s clear that many are struggling without assistance.
“Taxi and commuter drivers contributed significantly, often unnoticed, after both the September 11 attacks and the Flight 587 crash,” highlighting the need to acknowledge those who volunteered their services during that time.
As for Walkin, his devoted son noted the immense challenges his father has faced with cancer, adding that Walkin hasn’t been able to enjoy fishing, a passion of his, in over a year.
“I’m weak,” Walkin admitted between coughs, “but I’m not giving up.” He continues to receive encouragement from friends who send him fishing gear to lift his spirits.
“They tell me to hang in there. I hope I can be out there again soon,” he added determinedly.
