Rudy Giuliani has disclosed that he underwent what he describes as a 'very significant spiritual experience' while being treated for pneumonia in hospital. The 81-year-old former New York City mayor returned to his online show on Wednesday from his home in West Palm Beach, Florida, where he is now recuperating.
Spiritual Intervention
Giuliani recounted that during his hospital stay, he experienced an 'intervention' involving his former top aide, Peter J. Powers, who passed away in 2016. 'There was a very significant intervention by my Peter, Peter J. Powers, my friend of my lifetime,' Giuliani said. 'Peter said some very significant words, and I made sure, as soon as I woke up, I started telling people, and then I recorded it in part.'
The staunch Trump ally indicated he would elaborate on the experience at a later date, noting that he has been reflecting on it and even discussed it with a priest. 'I don't want to embellish it, and I don't want to deny what was there. I wrote it down, and it's quite beautiful,' he added.
Health Battle
Giuliani was admitted to hospital on May 3 with viral pneumonia, which was complicated by pre-existing conditions including 9/11-related restrictive airway disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. His condition was so severe that he required a mechanical ventilator, and a priest administered last rites last Monday. However, he was moved out of intensive care last Wednesday, with his primary care physician, Dr. Maria Ryan, describing his recovery as 'a miracle.'
Giuliani said: 'I've been away a week and a few days. I had pneumonia. I'm in the middle of making a full and very complete recovery. I feel 100% and I'm probably not. I'm still recovering from what was a pretty serious bout of viral pneumonia.'
Past Health Issues
The former mayor, who served from 1994 to 2001, has faced numerous health challenges stemming from the September 11 attacks. He also suffered a broken back in a car crash in New Hampshire last August, resulting in a fractured thoracic vertebra, lacerations, bruising, and injuries to his left arm and lower leg. In 2000, he dropped out of the US Senate race against Hillary Clinton after being diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Giuliani first gained prominence as a high-profile prosecutor, taking on mobsters and corrupt Wall Street figures. He was elected mayor in 1993 and became known for implementing the 'broken windows' policing strategy and the controversial stop-and-frisk program, which contributed to a significant reduction in crime.
