Dr. Arthur Gudeon oral history interview conducted by Julie Broihier, September 24, 2010

About

Arthur has been a podiatrist in Queens for 50 years. He heard about the first plane hitting the towers on his way to vote in a primary election. He returned to his office and watched the events unfold on the television in the waiting room of his office. He knew right away he had to do something. With the College of Podiatry and the Podiatry Association, he coordinated an effort of podiatrists working 6-8 hour shifts for eight months to treat foot injuries at Ground Zero. Podiatrists came from all over the country, donating their time and effort to the cause. An area in St. Paul's Chapel was designated as a podiatry office. A pew where George Washington prayed was converted into the podiatry office. There was also a chiropractic office and massage therapy in the chapel. All supplies were donated. For the first 2-3 months, there were many injuries, sprains, blisters, etc., to treat. Arthur said the mood in the chapel was emotional but uplifting. The entire chapel was decorated with banners and posters from children around the county and became a refuge for first responders where they could rest and have their injuries treated. There were cots set up for sleeping, and musicians played soothing music. During the first three months, Arthur said the air was heavy and musty, and he knew it was toxic. The smell never dissipated, and the chapel was filled with dust. He has health issues as a result of his time spent at Ground Zero and goes to the Mt. Sinai Clinic three times a month.

Archive

Library of Congress, in Library of Congress

Licence or status

Rights statement at the Library of Congress, as the Library of Congress states it.

Credit

Library of Congress

Language

English

Country

United States

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