A selfless woman from Staten Island, who dedicated her life to helping others during one of the darkest times in American history, has passed away. Kimberly LaSala, a single mother and a former emergency medical technician (EMT), died from cancer at the age of 48.
Kimberly wasn’t just any EMT. After the tragic events of September 11, 2001, she went straight to Ground Zero in New York City.
She worked at the site where the World Trade Center towers collapsed, helping to treat and comfort victims, fellow responders, and anyone in need. Despite the emotional and physical risks, she didn’t hesitate to help.
At that time, she was also raising her daughter alone. Balancing her role as a mother and a responder wasn’t easy, but Kimberly never stepped back.
She kept going — even when things were tough. Many remember her as someone full of strength, heart, and compassion.
In the years after 9/11, many first responders who spent time at Ground Zero developed serious health issues, including cancer, due to the toxic dust and air at the site. Kimberly was one of them. Her cancer was believed to be linked to the time she spent there helping others.
Despite her struggles, Kimberly continued to live for others. She later worked in hospitals and home healthcare, helping elderly and sick patients with care and kindness.
Friends and family say that even during her treatment, she kept checking on others, always putting their needs before her own.
Her daughter, now grown up, shared how proud she was of her mother. She described Kimberly as her best friend, a role model, and the strongest woman she ever knew. Her mother’s life wasn’t easy, but she never gave up, and she taught her daughter to stay strong and keep going no matter what.
People who knew Kimberly say she didn’t do it for fame or recognition. She just wanted to help. She didn’t expect anything in return, even though she faced huge health challenges later in life because of her service. She was one of many heroes whose bravery after 9/11 continues to inspire others.
In 2018, Kimberly was diagnosed with cancer. She fought for several years, going through treatments while still trying to live her life fully. Sadly, she passed away in May 2025.
Her passing is a heartbreaking reminder of the ongoing impact of 9/11, not just on the day itself but even decades later. Thousands of responders like Kimberly are still dealing with health problems caused by the toxic environment at Ground Zero.
Now, her family and friends are remembering her not just as a 9/11 responder, but as someone who lived her entire life for others.
A fundraiser has been started to support her daughter and cover funeral costs. Many people from the community have come forward to donate and pay tribute to Kimberly’s life.
She is being remembered as a true hero, not just because she helped during 9/11, but because of how she lived every day after that. With compassion, courage, and an unshakable spirit, she touched the lives of many. And now, her story is one that people across the country are remembering with gratitude and respect.
Kimberly LaSala’s story reminds us of the quiet strength that many heroes carry. She may not have worn a cape, but she had the heart of a warrior — and she leaves behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.