9/11 Stories: FDNY Wife Jess Daly

On 9/11, 27 year old Jess Daly was living with her now-FDNY husband, Mike, who was 34 . He had just left work and was on his way to Brooklyn to help out a friend. Jess was on the bus, heading to work in the garment center of Manhattan. Outside the Lincoln Tunnel, passengers were shocked by the sight of black smoke pouring out of the iconic World Trade Center. No one knew what had happened. By the time she got to work, the second tower had been hit. Mike called, telling Jess
all the firefighters were being called in to work. Jess remembers begging him not to go. Mike’s response: “If I was down there, you’d want someone coming for me”.
The day was excruciating for Jess. Nothing from Mike until 11:00 that night, and hearing reports of missing FDNY’ers…50, 70, 100, she felt helpless. Although she finally learned Mike was safe, Jess didn’t see him until Friday. He was a zombie. He didn’t speak. Mike returned to Ground Zero to help in the rescue and recovery until they kicked him out. In 2013, He was diagnosed with a stage-4, 9/11cancer. He is now cancer-free but required two jaw replacement surgeries, leaving him without the ability to eat. For the last year, Mike Daly has been on a feeding tube. He tells Jess every day, he’d do it all over again. He has no regrets.
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[@jessicadaly9094]

Thank you to everyone that commented. It’s the first time I’ve come here and realized people made comments. Our life is not easy and my husband requires oxygen day and night now…but with the Grace of God and support of family and friends we keep going. ♥️♥️♥️

[@GetonMylevel132]

Your strength and resolve is truly inspiring. I'm so sorry your husband is requiring daily oxygen treatments now. May our Blessed Mother continue to watch over you, your husband and children. 💕📿

[@ari2131]

Thank you for sharing your story 🙏🏼

[@EmmaNHayes]

Thank you so much for sharing your story. It must be so hard to go through yourself as well as watching your husband go through what he’s going through. 💜

[@arabesquearomas]

My best wishes to you and to your husband. 💗

[@uscitizen4172]

You are a brave and strong lady!

[@Leslie.dogmom]

Omg she looks so young.

[@HeatherShineify]

I can’t stop watching every interview. I started watching 2 weeks ago and it’s all I can think about. These great heroes who gave their lives on that day. Tomorrow is September 11, 2021. May we never forget. 💔🤗 Thank you Shelli and every family represented here. 🙏🏻 God bless you all.

[@sigsin1]

Same.

[@andreashields6983]

Me too

[@willettej7988]

I know how you’re feeling. I’m doing the same thing. I sat in my house ALL day and watched it all happen live. My brain could not process what my eyes were seeing. It was all so surreal. I pray all souls who left their bodies that day are united with our loving Almighty God

[@Marsha_C]

Oh my goodness!!! Same here! Been binge watching for a week now. A lot of these stories literally takes my breath away......what they saw, experienced. I cannot imagine being down there on that fateful day. We must NEVER FORGET.....ALWAYS REMEMBER. ❤❤🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@cindysurfer2080]

Oh yes, same here. I have always paid tribute on 9/11 by watching the various documentaries and this year is the same. I always put the day aside cause I know I will be glued to the TV. After I’ve watched everything on TV, I come here to KZbin and do the same. Oftentimes I will refer to a book I bought shortly after the attacker’s by the New York’s Times called “Portraits of Grief”. In this book they have bios of many of those that died that day. I keep the book out on my coffee table. So, as you can see you are not alone.

[@Lucy0809]

You don’t look old enough to be mum to a 30 year old! Xx

[@cacampbell3654]

I never ever tell anyone to “get over” anything they’re struggling with. My dad died suddenly and tragically when I was 15. One of my friends said that to me a few weeks later when I said I missed my dad! I never really recovered from the shock of someone basically belittling and dismissing my grief.

[@debrakiddoo318]

Absolutely…every one has their own time for grief and some things you never truly get over even if life goes on. I feel angry about that friend although they were young and probably didn’t understand or felt uncomfortable. I’m sorry that was the response you received for a real sharing of your heart.

[@rachmunshine9474]

I can’t imagine saying that to anybody let alone a 15 year old about their parent (my kids were 17, 15, 13 and 11 when my husband died) but the worst is, I can’t imagine saying that or anything close to it just a few weeks after. Especially considering it was sudden, but either way really. I’m so sorry. Somebody was so insensitive to you, but they were definitely wrong. Not that you shouldn’t live, and hold him close in your heart and memories. And go on to make him proud, as I’m sure you have. but that that’s not something you could “get over” or necessarily want to. What a terrible thing to say, and terrible wording. Sending you a hug and warm wishes!

[@BeverlyMurphy-ii2wp]

Yes I know we do live in a VERY SELFISH World 🌎 I witness lack of Compassion for mankind Constantly. I watch SOOOO MANY people Chasing the "Elite Life" only to find themselves in SPIRITUAL DARKNESS & JUST SOOOO UNHAPPY PEOPLE R THOSE CHASING THE DREAM $$$$$🤑🤮 💔

[@Lucas-DX]

You can hear between the lines how hard her daily life must be. Yet she doesn’t complain at all and takes care of her husband as a duty, at the expense of her own ambitions. What a rare person. I just hope she manages to find a few moments of solace and pleasure during the day because she deserves it

[@MareRS357]

I feel for this lady and her courage of supporting her spouse she is going through pain just as much as her brave husband. God Bless not easy to deal with. God Bless. ❤️🙏🏼

[@user-wz7vo7qp2r]

My beautiful, strong, caring friend. God has a plan for the Daly's. You touch people everyday, more than you know.

[@BeverlyMurphy-ii2wp]

SO TRUE YOUR LIFE DOES HELP PEOPLE TO BE STRONG & KEEP THE FAITH. JESS YOU WILL BE IN MY PRAYERS. I WONT FORGET YOU. MY MAIDEN NAME WAS DALY & YOU LOOK JUST LIKE MY NIECE DEBBIE BLESSING TO YOU ALL JESS 🙏🕊️✝️🕊️✝️🕊️✝️🕊️✝️

[@donnamyers7274]

Prayers for you Jess and your husband and all involved in the clean up of 9/11. That phrase "you need to get over it" infuriates me. It's the most lack of common sense and compassion phrase ever said. You're so right Jess...you can't just get over trauma at the snap of a finger...when the trauma is still ongoing. So my words and prayers for your husband and for you are most sincere. God bless all!🙏🙏🙏💔🙌🙌🙌💞

[@dianemitchell1717]

You are an incredibly strong person. Wives have played such an important role for their families. So glad you connected with these other women. Bless you all for supporting each other.

[@amandameitz1145]

Jess , my words could never express the empathy I have for you , and every one touched that day on 911 ( which is truly world wide ) .... I know it never leaves you . I am struggling to find the "right " words .. Nothing but love from Amanda from Canada, today and every day ... God bless you , your family, and America .

[@haydeeclavell273]

She looks extremely young!!! Remarkable woman.

[@bernicemyers674]

From one sister to another Jess YOU MATTER💜

[@sharonmchugh7730]

I just want to give her a huge hug! She is amazing. 🍀💖

[@k.gspianoworldjourneyschan437]

Jess! If you read this! Your a hero!! All the spouse's are heros! Your message hasn't fell on deaf ears! I hear you...I'm kenny in Ann arbor, michigan and I'm just a regular deli worker and your stronger 💪😌than I EVER will be! Love kenny! 💘it's a honor

[@jessicadaly9094]

Thank you kenny ♥️

[@Castlependragon]

I can't imagine telling any person to "get over it". Like, you go to hell and come back and see how over it you get! Also, i wish that these interviewees would stop saying they're sorry when the get upset talking about September 11. You have EVERY RIGHT TO BE UPSET. You have EVERY REASON TO CRY. And anyone who says different can f right off

[@tiffanygaeta8133]

What an amazing woman! "Unsung Heroes" is an understatement. I'm so glad that you have a wonderful support of women around you. God Bless.

[@sharonmckay9920]

Your husband is a hero

[@moodyblewis5881]

I have to wonder if his cancer was a result of the toxic air quality and other conditions he worked in all those days at ground zero. Damn shame either way. Still a hero. Thank you for your dedication. And Jess....you're a good person with a beautiful heart. Sending hugs and prayers to you and your family members.

[@barbaravyse660]

Jess your husband is a hero. I’m so sorry that he’s been suffering health wise. I pray for him and your family.

[@lindadavies6109]

This is an amazing series. Grief has no end and I am very glad that you have found such a wonderful support group dear Jess. God bless you 💐♥️

[@32000voisine]

Wow poor guy and all the 9/11 first responders that have all these health problems after the collapse.

[@vickey3280]

Your husband is a hero and I’m so sorry for all you are going thur. I’ll 🙏for you and your family.

[@autoscape1963]

Beautiful interview. God bless you Jess and your husband

[@b0borden437]

Thank you for doing this interview Jess, you ARE an unsung hero. Your husband is a brave man & a hero. I pray for better days for your family.

[@crwmdp9]

Such a courageous woman

[@janegreen5301]

Thank you, Jess, for telling YOUR story. You matter. I am so grateful that group of women found you. God bless you, Jane.

[@FargoFX]

“How do you get over something that you live every day.” 10:50

[@b0borden437]

Brave woman married to a hero. Both are amazing people who represent the best of NYC.

[@keith2092]

What a brave woman.

[@favouritemoon4133]

I made a conscious decision to 'forget' the date my dad died, because I had a friend who suffered every year as that date came closer, and I didn't want to experience that reliving of grief every year. It worked for me. Years later I did the same when my mum died. That worked too. I have 6 older siblings so this tip may come in handy in the future. I was thousands of miles away but even for me, 9/11 is the date I can *never* forget. Not ever. I can't and I don't want to, because everything *did* change that day. Thank you, Jess for telling us what that day was like for you, and I am so glad you are now connected with people who you can be both supported by, and support in turn.

[@berthaperez7353]

Thank you Jess

[@Bachconcertos]

The pay phones were usually broken back then - it was hard to find one that was working.

[@amandameitz1145]

.. perhaps I'm confused... 20 yrs ago payphones worked , today on the other hand your lucky to even find one . I do live in Canada though .. But 20 yrs ago payphones were very prevelant, at least in Canada; on every other block.

[@jenruth792]

@@amandameitz1145 pay phones were everywhere in Manhattan 20 years ago but it was hard to find one that wasn’t broken. Millions of people a day using those pay phones.

[@christinedugmore]

@@jenruth792 either broken or vandalised

[@leesher1845]

Powerful story and strong woman who clearly is in abject pain. I’m glad she has a supportive group of women to lift her up. ❤️

[@danielleybelly8039]

Thank you for sharing your story Jessica. My prayers are with you and your husband.

[@mstiff6234]

Prayers for the whole family

[@sheilahammond4260]

This is so sad! I am sure that you are glad your husband made it through, and were very relieved, and I hope your wedding was a happy one, and that you have had lots of good days together, despite all the setbacks. It sounds like you may benefit from a certain type of counselling. I'm sorry I can't help guide you to the right one. My dad used to be a fireman. Later in his life, he needed a lot of care, so I do understand that it's not easy. I wish you so much happiness. There will be good days and bad days, and although you may not always see the joy that you are bringing him, because he probably is suffering depression, and all the effects of illness and medication, be assured that you mean so much. You have been doing your best, I'm sure. Do try to get a bit of time for yourself. A back massage or foot therapy, something as a reward every so often. It's needed! Find someone to help cheer your husband up, if you can. It sounds like he's been going through a terrible time. God bless you both.💞

[@patriciarouse2801]

Our nervous system is designed for love. The environmental hazards that create a slurry of man made misery are another thing we can do better. Human knowledge is the foundation of compassion and empathy. These earth angels are the spiritual fruit of our human capacities. The mothers and fathers get better generation after generation. Peace in your hearts and being. Stay with us.

[@lindagardener855]

God bless you all 🙏❤️

[@sharktoothgamingandfishing3524]

I see you girl

[@californiahiker9616]

Oh Jess, I just really dislike people who tell others to “get over it”. Regardless of what it is they want you to get over….. it’s not their life, it’s not their shoes, they’re not you. Your life, upbringing, and personality has equipped you with a certain set of skills … or lack of skills. That’s not a judgement, that’s just the way it is. When life throws things at you you cope the best you can. When life throws a lot of stuff at you all at once it may take years to sort all that out. And it’s not like this is all you do… you’re still working, raising kids, losing friends, going to funerals, it all just keeps piling up! The bigger the pile gets the harder it is to manage it! There’s no timeline to grief and sorrow. I am glad you found a group of people you can confide in, and you can support each other. When somebody is afflicted with chronic illness, it affects the entire family. You pretty much took the words out of my mouth… the wives are the unsung heroes. Your suffering is different from that of your husband, but it’s still suffering. You are entitled to your feelings of sorrow and loss. You lost your former life, and that’s no small adjustment. It sounds though like you have arrived in a spot where life is more manageable. I hope your husband has found a group of firefighters or others who were affected deeply by that day in a similar manner. I just came across a story of a man who worked a block away from the WTC. He stayed in the vicinity to help out and years later was diagnosed with a form of blood cancer. He is disabled, but counseling others. He finds it very rewarding. I am in awe of all the people who came down with cancer or some other illness. So far I haven’t come across a single one who regretted helping out, or responding to the call to report to duty. In retrospect they said they’d do it all over again, knowing the risks. Your husband is a hero, and so are you. All the best to you and your family!

[@barbaravyse660]

These stories are great, but it’s very weird for the interviewer to pop in at the end and not the beginning.

[@renem2257]

Wow

[@em-loof-tonnac]

I wonder what her husbands name is. With him being a 9/11 firefighter, I would like to hear his 9/11 survival story if he gave one.

[@jessicadaly9094]

His name is Michael Daly and he has never given his story of survival. He is a humble and low key man who Hates being called a Hero and would do it again if he could.

[@swashington942]

Why is this person being interviewed? Was she in the towers or at the site?

[@NathanielDowell]

She has a relevant personal experience that's well worth documenting, one that fits perfectly with the series title of "9/11 Stories". Each story in this series reveals another facet of that day.

[@dianaj8817]

I just read he passed away back November 25th, I'm very sorry for your loss @jessicadaly9094