Former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani shared a social media post on Thursday confirming that toxins from Ground Zero after the September 11, 2001, attacks contributed to his current hospitalization.

Giuliani, 81, reposted a message from Dr. Maria Ryan, his primary care provider, on X. Ryan detailed how Giuliani rushed to the World Trade Center towers on 9/11, became trapped when one fell, and emerged covered in white dust. She wrote that he spent months at the site, leading to restrictive airway disease and chronic breathing difficulties. A recent human metapneumovirus infection overwhelmed his compromised lungs, requiring hospitalization.

Giuliani was admitted to a Florida hospital on May 3 with severe pneumonia. His condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to mechanical ventilation and last rites from a priest. Ryan described the turnaround as a miracle, noting he has "nine lives" and was breathing on his own by midweek. He has since left the intensive care unit but remains hospitalized for recovery.

Spokesman Ted Goodman attributed the severity to restrictive airway disease from 9/11 toxins, including asbestos and hydrocarbons in the dust cloud. Goodman said Giuliani "ran toward the towers to help those in need." The illness followed a trip to Paris, where symptoms began.

Giuliani's lawyer, Michael Barasch, confirmed he is applying to the federal World Trade Center Health Program for free care. The program, created in 2010, covers over 152,000 enrollees with 9/11-related illnesses like respiratory conditions. Barasch said civilians like Giuliani qualify alongside first responders. More than 40,000 have certified respiratory issues, with the program paying nearly $350 million in claims last year.

Experts like Dr. Jacqueline Moline of Northwell Health said such exposures commonly cause pulmonary conditions years later, increasing pneumonia risks. Dr. Marc Wilkenfeld of NYU Langone noted lung scarring can develop 15 to 25 years post-exposure.

Giuliani earned the title "America's Mayor" for leading New York through the attacks, visiting Ground Zero frequently despite known hazards his administration sometimes downplayed. Thousands of responders developed similar illnesses. President Donald Trump called him a "True Warrior" on Truth Social.

Goodman said Giuliani appreciates prayers and support. Doctors expect a full recovery, after which he plans to resume media appearances defending Trump.