EMMY AWARD-WINNING “FORGETTING 9/11: THE JOHN CRITTENDEN STORY” MARKS THE 25TH ANNIVERSARY OF SEPTEMBER 11 WITH EXTENDED 1 HOUR -NATIONAL BROADCAST SPECIAL

September 8, 2026
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Updated hour-long program revisits a survivor’s journey and explores the enduring impact of trauma through PTSD education, World Trade Center Health Program information and an PTSD expert round-table

New York, NY, September 8 2026 — Able Channel today announced that its Emmy Award-winning program, “Forgetting 9/11: The John Crittenden Story,” will air on major broadcast networks and their affiliates across the country to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

The updated, hour-long special brings audiences back to the deeply personal story of September 11 survivor John Crittenden, examining the lasting impact of that day and his journey through trauma. Combining documentary storytelling with expert perspectives, the program invites viewers to consider both an individual survivor’s experience and the emotional legacy of September 11 for the nation. 

“John’s story is an important historical document of survival—not just surviving on that fateful day but every day since. PTSD is a real and lasting condition that science and medical researchers are only recently beginning to understand and treat. Through John’s firsthand account, we learn the effects of 9/11 on survivors and the country.” said Brian McCourt CEO of Able Channel. 

Twenty-five years later, the anniversary is an occasion to remember those who were lost, recognize those whose lives were forever changed and examine the consequences that continue long after the immediate crisis has passed. Through updates to John’s story, the special explores what it means to survive—and to move forward while carrying the memory of an extraordinary tragedy.

The broadcast includes information about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the World Trade Center Health Program, connecting the survivor narrative with information relevant to people seeking greater understanding and support.

A featured PTSD expert round-table expands the discussion from John’s experience to the broader subject of trauma, asking a provocative question: Has America been in a state of PTSD since September 11?

The conversation explores that question as a lens for examining the country’s response to collective trauma, rather than as a clinical diagnosis of a nation. It considers how the attacks may continue to shape Americans’ sense of safety, identity and connection—and what John’s story can teach us about empathy, resilience and recovery.

By bringing together a survivor’s perspective, health information and expert discussion, “Forgetting 9/11: The John Crittenden Story” offers a remembrance grounded in human experience and a timely opportunity to reflect on how individuals and communities live with the aftermath of trauma. This award winning program also features PTSD experts Dr. Jaryd Hiser and Arianna Galagher from The Ohio State University and Arash Javanbakht from Wayne State University. 

Broadcast Information

The hour-long special will air on major broadcast networks and their affiliates across the United States in recognition of the 25th anniversary of September 11th. Air dates and times will vary by market. Viewers should check local listings to tune in. 

About Able Channel

Able Channel is an Emmy Award-winning healthcare media company that brings together compelling human stories and health education. Through programming featuring real people and expert perspectives, Able Channel helps audiences better understand the health challenges that affect their lives.

For media inquiries, contact:
Able Channel Media Relations
347-354-2359 x0001
press@theablechannel.com

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