NORTH HOLLYWOOD, Calif. – “My father died last year of four different types of cancers - 9/11 related. They told us to restore, rebuild, and remember,” said Elizabeth Regen as she is reading from a short play she wrote about her father.
Regen’s father passed away in 2016 after a 12-year battle with cancer related to being exposed to deadly toxins as a September 11 volunteer.
“No matter how long and hard I think about these things. It will always be incredibly painful. I just have to do what I can to move forward,” said Regen.
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Three years ago she collaborated with her friend, Michael Hennessey, and they came up with the idea to hold a memorial event every September 11 and ask people to submit their short stories, poetry, essays, and plays related to their personal 9/11 experiences.
“I am a writer and I had stopped writing when he died. I was really so sad. But I felt this story definitely needed to be told and I knew he would want me to keep writing,” said Regen.
Regen is rehearsing outside the Loft Ensemble Theater with Michael and Araina Holloway. Now in its third year, the annual event is called 9 to 11 Minute Plays and Stories inspired by the events of 9/11.
“The young kids, they just don't understand what really happened that day. And this is a way to honor the people who have passed away to honor the people that are survived it and are still with us,” said Hennessey.
Proceeds from the evening will go to the Feal Good Foundation, which continues fighting for healthcare rights for first responders and volunteers who are currently sick and dying from 9/11 related illnesses.
“It breaks my heart and I miss my father. But I am so grateful that I have supportive friends and loved ones here in Los Angeles who helped me put this event together and we get to keep his memory alive. And who knows what we're able to do. For those who are ill right now. Maybe we can better their last few years,” said Regen.
While the memorial event is one night only, what it represents will be with all of us forever.
The evening is on Wednesday, September 11 at 7 p.m. at the Loft Ensemble Theater located at 11031 Camarillo St, North Hollywood, CA 91602. Tickets are $19.11.