More than 400 first responders died due to diseases related to the September 11 attacks in New York, a CNN International report revealed. This number represents only the confirmed deaths among firefighters and other emergency professionals who worked at the site of the attacks.
Among the victims was Patrick, one of the firefighters affected by diseases related to exposure to the toxins released during the collapse of the Twin Towers. Despite developing serious health problems as a result of his actions at the site of the tragedy, Patrick stated that he "would not change anything" about his decision to help with the rescue operations.
September 11-related diseases continue to cause deaths 25 years after the attacks. The number of fatalities among first responders keeps rising, demonstrating the long-term effects of exposure to toxic particles present in the air of Lower Manhattan after the collapse of the towers.
