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<< Return to previous page Contributed by: Dr K Jacobsen Contributor's location on 9/11: Now in California and New York. Contributed on: 13 May 2004 How did you witness history on September 11th? After a long recovery and many many months of professional help I am now able to talk about some of the events of this Horrific day that not only change the World but changed my life forever. I was at a meeting with my business partners and eighteen staff and four clients high in the North Tower . Enjoying the clearness of the early morning out over Manhattan. I, along with my assistant Anna left just prior to the plane slamming into our building. There were eight people who were trapped in the Elevator nearest to impact. We knew that it was a bomb or something very serious had just happened that stopped our elevator as we could hear the extremely loud noises and smell smoke and fuel as all our lights went out and our elevators stopped. Some of the men climbed up on to the roof through the manhole to see how we could escape. Five people around us died as huge explosions blow metal like paper and fire raged. Three of us managed to escape through a huge hole that was blown in the elevator wall and via a ladder on inside of the elevator shaft. We climbed down with our injuries and through a small opening into a landing. Eventually we reached the main stairwell. People were injured and very afraid. There were people pushing and trying to get out. No order was present as they panicked and tried to save themselves. I saw things on this day that shall stay in my mind and heart forever. By the Mercy and help of God we escaped only seconds before the building fell. Prior to September 11th I had been a successful business woman and after my life is dramaticall changed. I know God was there on that day for me and others. Miracles did happen . God was there for so many along with the brave firemen, medics, civilians and did save my life and many others. We were graced by a living God who heard our cries and saved us Psalms 18 1-7. Has your life changed because of September 11, 2001? In every way my life has changed. I value life and the source of where it come so much more. I value what is really valuable "All the things that money can not buy" What do you think should be remembered about September 11th? Never forget what happened this day. Never go back to your comfortable arena's. Please do not place a building on ground zero. For me it represents the place where my partners and beloved staff are and no one should place a building over them. Put a memorial wall with beautiful gardens with water running were people can come and feel. Were there can come and say goodbye. Have some peace and closure. ( let me design a monument even though it is not my field) It would be from my heart, and that represents the hearts of the world. But we must unite in every way one nation under God. Hold on to what made this country great. Hold one tight and be faithful and true. Did you fly an American flag after the events of September 11th? I am a stronger American than ever. Loyal and faithful. Cite as: Dr K Jacobsen, Smithsonian Story #6523, The September 11 Digital Archive, 13 May 2004, <http://911digitalarchive.org/smithsonian/details/6523>. Archival Information: 346 words, 1870 characters << Return to previous page