BUFFALO, N.Y. — ​Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center is now joining a national network that serves the brave men and women who served in response to the September 11 terrorist attacks.

Under the 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, all first responders who served in New York City, Washington, D.C. or Shanksville, Pennsylvania were to be provided medical care at no cost to the patient because their bravery put their health in extreme risk, including an increased chance of being diagnosed with cancer.

But before Wednesday, first responders living in Western New York would need to drive across the state to reach a health care center allowed to treat them. Now, they can strive for a full life with approved care in their own backyard.

“We know that the great retirement that we’re all looking for is being reduced by 11 – 13 years,” Michael Valenti, Firefighter Cancer Foundation of NY president, said. “Now what type of retirement is that for us, if we’re not even going to see our grandkids? And to know now there is a center right here that we can send out firefighters and first responders to in amazing.”

Roswell scientists will also be studying the heightened risks all first responders face in their work environment.