09/11/2026
Remembering this day 25 years ago and every life that was lost.
In the last 25 years, we have lost close to 9,000 souls due to 9/11-related illnesses and cancer. Five years ago, we lost Gill Chadler Hockett, August 2, to esophageal cancer. I always wonder: Why his breath? Why his throat and not all the rest of us that were there at that time? We were so lucky to have him for 20 years after 9/11, but five years ago we lost our best friend, our shining star, our godfather, and our greatest love.
Just before 9/11, I had moved to Pensacola that May, but was still working in NYC. I was asked to come back to New York to do a second book for Katie Brown. I was to be back in my old apartment with my same roommates October through the end of November. Our office was in Chinatown, and I took the 6 train out every morning to arrive at City Hall.
I remember clearly getting off the train, taking my jacket and covering my mouth and my nose. The air was like nothing I had ever experienced. The lines for the Red Cross were still hundreds of people long, and the city was still grieving. I would think to myself as I walked to my office, how are we breathing this air?
Ultimately, I did not complete my stay in New York at that time. It was too hard. It was too sad. The city was in a state of shock. I think it was the first time that I ever quit a job....
I’ll never forget a dear client, Maryann Long, left me a voicemail… “How am I supposed to hire you if you’re still in New York?” That sealed the deal. I moved back to Pensacola permanently and started my business.
I would continue to freelance in New York for many years. I still go back every year and see all of the beautiful souls that are now lifelong friends. It makes you very grateful for those times because it could’ve been any of us.....
I make sure that my kids get to experience the city and feel the pulse and the life that was Gill and IS New York City.
Last year, we ran the Tunnel to Tower 5K in Gill’s memory. This year, we remember him on this day like we do every day; his spirit and the spirit of New York. Forever.
