Christine Egan, an epidemiologist and former nurse in Canada’s North, tragically lost her life in the 9/11 attacks in the U.S. Her partner, Ellen Judd, fondly remembers Christine as not just a healthcare professional but also as a vibrant individual with interests in gardening, reading, and music, particularly enjoying the song “Bridge Over Troubled Water” by Simon and Garfunkel.
Judd, who now resides in Vancouver, reflects on the special bond she shared with Christine before the tragic events of September 11, 2001. Christine, along with her brother Michael Egan, was one of 26 Canadians who perished in the attacks, with Christine being at the World Trade Center’s south tower during the incident.
In honor of Christine’s legacy, Judd established the Dr. Christine Egan Memorial Scholarship in 2004, which benefits nursing students in Nunavut. The scholarship recognizes Christine’s dedication to healthcare and her years of service in the North before earning a PhD in community health sciences.
Judd believes that maintaining Christine’s memory through the scholarship and a plaque at the University of Manitoba serves as a fitting tribute to her compassionate spirit. On the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Judd emphasizes the importance of responding to tragedies with empathy and care, echoing the values Christine exemplified in her life.
As Winnipeg commemorates the anniversary in its own way, first responders and community members gather to honor the lives lost and reflect on the enduring impact of the tragic events. Judd continues to uphold Christine’s memory through various initiatives, underscoring the importance of compassion and solidarity in the face of adversity.
The lasting lesson from 9/11, as Judd sees it, is the ability of individuals to come together in times of crisis with kindness and empathy. She emphasizes the need for a collective effort towards a more caring and supportive world to prevent future tragedies like 9/11.