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Community Corner

Changed by 9/11: Donna Protter, Businesswoman

Huntington resident finds tragedy made her more alert and appreciative.

The events of Sept. 11 have changed Donna Protter forever.

“We appear stronger in that we’re continuing our lives and not feeling that sense of defeat,” said Protter, of Huntington. “It didn’t kill us.”

The collapse of the twin towers made her realize just how important people are in her life. The number of people lost on that tragic day taught her to be more appreciative of life and thankful she is still alive and well.

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“The value of life is much more fulfilling to me,” said Protter. “Everyone in my life is precious, and you can’t take it for granted.”

Protter said she hopes this disaster has taught people, specifically New Yorkers, to be more alert and to prepare themselves for disasters like 9/11 at anytime. She said people cannot let tragedy dominate their lives and must learn to accept it.

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“Beware your surroundings. Be more alert than usual, as a New Yorker,” she, a business owner, said.

Through it all, she says Sept. 11 has strengthened the country and has inspired people to continue living — even through the worst of times.

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