Retired NFL Great Raises Millions for 9-11 Rescuers

June 19, 2008 – Retired New York Giants football player George Martin will finish his walk across the United States June 21, 2008, at North Embarcadero Village in San Diego, California. For his “Journey for 9-11,” Martin walked 3,200+ miles to raise money to help provide health care for surviving Ground Zero rescue and recovery workers.

To date, Martin has raised more than $2 million. Additionally, three medical organizations have agreed to match every dollar Martin collects, bringing his total amount raised to at least $4 million.

Martin says the journey has been well worth it. “I wanted to raise awareness about the plight of the people I call true heroes, the first responders and the rescue and recovery workers who worked unselfishly to help save people and to find the remains of others," he says. "They didn't think twice about helping us. Taking this journey was me doing my part to help them.”

At the finish line celebration in Embarcadero Park, Martin will be joined by some of his former teammates and colleagues from the National Football League, local government officials and sponsors. Fire fighters, EMT personnel and police are also expected to attend.

A series of medical studies show exposure to Ground Zero has led to serious, long-term medical problems in thousands of rescue workers Many have reported suffering from asthma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.

To read more about Martin’s journey, click here [http://www.ajourneyfor911.info/whothisisfor.html].

George Martin was a star defensive end and co-captain of the Super Bowl Champion New York Giants (1986). In Super Bowl XXI, he famously tackled Broncos quarterback John Elway for a safety in the end zone. During his 14 NFL seasons (1975-1988), Martin scored seven touchdowns, setting a record for defensive linemen. He is also a former president of the NFL Players Association.