WHITFIELD: Welcome back. A former NYPD detective who became an outspoken advocate for 9/11 workers has died. Luis Alvarez spent three months working at ground zero, searching for survivors and looking for the remains of his fellow officers. Over the last several years Alvarez worked with Jon Stewart to help raise awareness over health care issues for first responders and survivors. The cancer that took his life was linked to his work at ground zero. Alvarez was on Capitol Hill just two weeks ago, pleading with lawmakers to replenish the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.</s>LUIS ALVAREZ: When they get sick, they die. I've been lucky enough to have had 68 rounds of chemo. Yes, you heard me right, 68 rounds. Many others haven't had the opportunity to have five, and some have had none. Their families would love to have time with them, and made mine have time with me, because I have been lucky enough to have the pain and suffering of 69 rounds of chemo and countless other treatments and surgeries. It is my goal, and it is my legacy to see that you do the right thing for all 9/11 responders.</s>WHITFIELD: Democratic lawmakers, including House Judiciary Chairman Jerry Nadler, are calling for their fellow lawmakers to act on that 9/11 victims' fund following Alvarez's death. Chairman Nadler releasing this statement, saying "Detective Alvarez lost his fight against cancer, but his fight for 9/11 responders and survivors continues. It is time for Congress to honor his sacrifice." Detective Alvarez was just 53 years old.
Advocate for 9/11 First Responders Luis Alvarez Dies.