Eric Shawn, a top Fox News correspondent, opened up about a tough health battle. He says toxins from the 9/11 attacks caused his cancer. Shawn shared this during a live show marking 24 years since the terror attacks. It happened on Fox & Friends, a popular morning program. The news hit hard as the world remembers that sad day. Shawn was right there in New York when it happened. His story shines a light on hidden dangers for heroes and reporters. Many still suffer from the dust cloud that covered the city. Let’s look at what happened, what Shawn said, and why it matters today.
1. Remembering 9/11: A Day That Changed Everything
September 11, 2001, started like any other. But it turned into America’s darkest hour. Hijackers flew planes into the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon near Washington D.C., and a field in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Nearly 3,000 people died that day. The attacks came from radical Islamic terrorists. They shook the nation to its core.
Shawn was in lower Manhattan, reporting live. He watched one plane fly right over him. The towers fell, sending a huge cloud of dust everywhere. That dust was full of toxins—burning jet fuel, office junk, and building bits. Anyone below Canal Street breathed it in. Shawn was one of them. He covered the story for days, breathing the bad air without knowing the risks.
Fast forward to 2025. It’s been 24 years. The Fox & Friends team was at the memorial in New York. They talked about the lives lost and the ongoing pain. That’s when Shawn stepped up. His words brought the past right back to life.
2. Shawn’s Brave Moment on Live TV
During the broadcast, Shawn spoke from the heart. “It has been nearly a quarter of a century since that day, when radical Islamic terrorists attacked the heart of our city and country,” he said. His voice was steady, but you could feel the weight.
He shared stats that hit home. More than 3,700 first responders have died since 9/11. About 2,300 of those deaths came from cancer. The CDC says the number of cancer cases from the dust has soared this year. Nearly 48,000 people have reported 9/11-linked cancers. And in the last few months alone, almost 10,000 new diagnoses.
Then came the personal part. “If you were below Canal Street, basically, you were exposed to the dust. I was here reporting on it,” Shawn told his co-hosts. He paused, then added, “I think of all those who are suffering much greater … I’ve lost a few friends from this, of course.”
Shawn revealed he got his cancer diagnosis this year. He links it straight to the attacks. He also deals with breathing problems from that day. “While 2,977 people were murdered here that day… the number who have died from 9/11-related illnesses has increased from the toxic dust that was released,” he said. It was raw and real. Viewers across the country tuned in, many with tears.
3. The Hidden Toll of 9/11 Dust
The dust from Ground Zero was no joke. It floated for weeks, covering cars, streets, and lungs. Tests later showed it had asbestos, lead, and chemicals that wreck the body. Firefighters, cops, cleanup workers, and even reporters like Shawn inhaled it deep.
At first, no one wore masks or knew the danger. People just wanted to help. But years later, cancers started popping up. Prostate, lung, skin—the list is long. The government set up the World Trade Center Health Program. It helps with treatment and tracks cases.
Shawn’s story is one of thousands. He didn’t say what kind of cancer, but he made it clear: It’s from 9/11. His openness helps others. Many feel alone in their fights. Now, they know a news star gets it too.
USA TODAY tried to reach Fox for more details. No word yet. But Shawn’s words already echo far.
4. First Responders and Reporters: Unsung Heroes Paying the Price
Shawn wasn’t alone that day. Thousands rushed in. Firefighters climbed stairs with heavy gear. Police kept order in chaos. Reporters like Shawn chased facts amid the smoke.
Over 3,700 first responders gone now. That’s more than died on 9/11 itself. Cancer is the killer. The dust ate away at their insides slow and steady.
Reporters faced it too. They stood in the pile for hours, mics in hand. Shawn thinks of lost friends—maybe fellow journalists or sources. His respiratory issues make every breath a reminder.
This year, the CDC noted a spike. Why now? Some say delayed effects. Others point to better tracking. Either way, it’s a call to act. More funding for care? Better screening? Shawn’s voice adds to the push.
5. Shawn’s Career: A Fox News Fixture
Eric Shawn has been with Fox since 1997. He’s covered wars, elections, and big trials. But 9/11 defined him. He was there from the start, interviewing survivors and leaders.
His style? Fair, deep, and kind. On Fox & Friends, he brings heart to hard news. This week, he turned the camera on himself. It wasn’t for pity—it was to honor the day.
Shawn lives in New York with his family. He’s a dad and husband, juggling work and home. Cancer adds stress, but he fights on. Airing his story shows strength. Fans flooded social media with support. #PrayForEric trended quick.
6. The Memorial Ceremony: Honoring the Fallen
The 24th anniversary brought crowds to Ground Zero. Families read names of the lost. Bells rang at crash times. Politicians spoke of unity.
Fox & Friends went live from there. Hosts Steve Doocy, Ainsley Earhardt, and Brian Kilmeade set the tone. Shawn’s report fit perfect—news mixed with feeling.
Shanksville and the Pentagon had events too. Planes of flags dotted fields. Survivors shared tales. It’s a ritual now, keeping memories alive.
Shawn ended hopeful. He urged viewers to remember the heroes—and watch for health signs. Early checks save lives.
7. Why Shawn’s Story Sparks Hope and Action
Sharing cancer news takes guts. Shawn did it live, no script. It humanizes 9/11. Not just history—it’s now, hurting real people.
His words push for more help. The health program needs cash. Research on toxins must grow. Reporters deserve coverage too, not just first responders.
As we hit 24 years, Shawn reminds us: Healing takes time. But voices like his keep the fight going. For those battling, you’re not alone.
Eric Shawn’s courage lights the way. In a world quick to forget, he makes us pause. Thank you, Eric, for telling your truth.
