The tragic event of 9/11 holds a lot of meaning for the United States, its life-changing effect is still being felt today.

Several first responders, such as firefighters are still dealing with health issues from that day.

That's why the Kirksville Chapter of the International Association of Firefighters (IAFF) hosted a Barrel Racing and Rodeo event on Saturday to raise money to memorialize the day.

"Firefighters that did survive and rescue relief people who did survive 9/11 and now they’re suffering drastic effects from dust and stuff like that they were exposed to," said IAFF secretary Tyler Davis. “Trying to figure out ways to support the cause without celebrating the day. We want to try to memorialize it and help those who supported the cleanup efforts."

Several riders came from all over to support the cause and to remember the tragedy that happened.

Even the younger riders still remember that terrible day and felt honored to be a part of the event.

"I was in school, TV's were on, people were crying, there was a lot of whispering and (we) didn't really know what was going on," said 26-year-old barrel rider McKenna Harward.

"We feel really privileged that we could be able to do this and I just want to thank those who are serving our country right now," said 25-year–old barrel rider Kenzie Gunter.

The event looked to raise money for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network.

Several firefighters from that fateful day have had to deal with cancer treatment due to debris and smoke.

Even today, cancer is still one of the biggest risks to a firefighter's health.

"They're coming out with more and more specialized gear, which of course cost more and more money, that have cancer barriers in them," Davis said. "But respiratory cancer, testicular cancer, those are all huge great dangers to us and we're at elevated risk for cancer."

While it may have been 20 years ago, our country is still coming together to help heal the wounds and continue to build a stronger community.