Help the family of 9-11 first responder Andy Cruz

Tragically on July 7th, at the young age of 58, father, husband, 9/11 first responder, and retired NYPD Officer Andrew S. (Andy) Cruz Sr. passed away suddenly. Andy was a selfless, honest, caring man. He cared for nothing more than his wife Debbie and his children, Andrew Jr, Brianna, and Jessica. He also loved the New York Giants and the family gatherings with his siblings, cousins, and nieces and nephews. Andrew Jr. has chosen to continue in his father's footsteps and is a Trooper for the State of NY. Andy chose to protect others and serve his community as a New York City Police Officer. During the 9/11 terrorist attacks and clean-up, Andy, along with many other NYPD officers, selflessly helped others. Andy retired and became a security guard for the Islip school district to spend more time with his family. Years later, however, his time at Ground Zero led to Andy developing 6 documented 9/11 illnesses. On top of those 6, he also developed a rare disease called Multiple System Atrophy (MSA). MSA is a rare fatal degenerative neurological disorder with no cure. MSA made his last years of life extremely difficult for him and his family up until his sudden death. While doctors believe his MSA was caused by toxins or chemical exposure most likely incurred at ground zero, the rareness of the disease will likely prevent it from becoming a 9/11 documented illness. This will exclude him from receiving any compensation. With Andy's sudden passing, his family lost his pension (their primary source of income) and health insurance coverage. The Cruz family is left heartbroken and with a stack of mounting expenses. Andy, who grew up in poverty, aimed to ensure his children had a better life than he did. Any donation to help the family of a man who spent his life helping others would be greatly appreciated.