The coronavirus outbreak is hitting Long Island 9/11 first responders who have underlying conditions hard.

John Feal, from the FealGood Foundation, contracted the coronavirus and recovered, but says he is worried about the 9/11 community because they continue to lose 9/11 responders from their illnesses and COVID-19.

“We are exposed, we are compromised, and we need to heed the advice of the experts, but even while I was sick and even while I was hurting, even while I thought I was going to die, I've been helping local hospitals and police departments and precincts, with food and protective equipment; and we're going to continue to help those who are on the last line of defense,” he says.

Feal says people need to stay home, listen to the experts and use common sense.

First responders are especially an at-risk population because of the respiratory disease that they developed as a result of 9/11.

"9/11 responders are compromised with serious respiratory illnesses, lower upper restrictive airway, cancer, pulmonary fibrosis that can go along with a laundry list. We need to heed the advice of these doctors and not go out there and be exposed to this virus which will kill you," he says.

MORE: LIVE BLOG - Coronavirus updates from the tri-state area and beyond 

PHOTOS: Coronavirus heroes on the front lines