In his deeply moving memoir, From The Pile: A 9/11 First Responder’s Story, author Neil Adams tells the inspiring and heartbreaking life story of Michael Dorian, a brave man whose journey of resilience began amidst the chaos of the 9/11 attacks. A gay man living with AIDS, Michael rushed to Ground Zero in his scrubs to assist in rescue operations during one of America’s darkest days. His selfless actions on that fateful day led to unforeseen consequences that would ultimately change the course of his life.
Through a compelling narrative, Adams recounts Michael’s battle with health issues, toxic relationships, and the physical toll of his volunteer work at Ground Zero, where he contracted a mutated form of skin cancer. The memoir also explores Michael’s quest for love, his complicated family dynamics, and his struggle to find happiness amidst his challenges with HIV, his sexuality, and fractured relationships.
“Michael’s story is one of redemption,” says Adams, who was Michael’s best friend for nearly 30 years. “Despite the immense challenges he faced, he never stopped fighting. When he was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer, his determination to survive and help others, including his service as a volunteer police officer with the NYPD after 9/11, was nothing short of inspiring.”
The memoir not only highlights the emotional and physical toll of Michael’s life but also celebrates his courage, accomplishments, and the deep bond between him and Adams. Michael’s eventual recognition—including an Emmy award for his story and a Medal of Valor from the NYPD—serves as a testament to his unbreakable spirit. His inclusion in Spike Lee’s 2021 documentary Epicenters: 9/11 Through 2021 and a Half further solidified his legacy as a hero of the 9/11 response.
Adams wrote this book to honor his friend’s memory and to raise awareness about the financial assistance available for those affected by 9/11, as well as the dangers of toxic relationships. “There are important lessons in Michael’s life that I believe can help others,” Adams explains. “First, people need to know that financial support exists for those suffering health consequences from the attacks. And second, we must all be mindful of the relationships we keep—some are mentally and physically harmful.”
From The Pile: A 9/11 First Responder’s Story is now available for purchase at major online booksellers, including Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
This memoir is not just the story of a remarkable individual but also a powerful message about the strength of the human spirit, the importance of resilience, and the enduring value of friendship.
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