Veteran weatherman Al Roker is recovering at home after a two-week hospitalization for pneumonia complications that were so severe his family chose not to tell him about the extent of his illness.
Roker, 69, was admitted to the hospital on November 18th with blood clots in his legs and lungs. He was later diagnosed with pneumonia, which led to internal bleeding and other complications.
"The pneumonia was so bad that it was life-threatening," said Roker's doctor, Dr. Richard Besser. "His family felt it was best not to tell him how sick he was because they didn't want to worry him."
Despite being in the hospital for two weeks, Roker remained in good spirits. His family and friends visited him regularly, and he was able to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade from his hospital bed.
"He's a fighter," said Roker's wife, Deborah Roberts. "He's always been a positive person, and that's what helped him through this."
Roker is now recovering at home and is expected to make a full recovery. He is still taking medication for his blood clots and pneumonia, but he is otherwise healthy.
"I'm so grateful to be alive," said Roker. "I'm also grateful to my family and friends for their support."
Pneumonia is a serious illness that can be life-threatening. It is caused by an infection of the lungs, and it can lead to internal bleeding, organ failure, and death.
The symptoms of pneumonia include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor right away.
Roker is expected to make a full recovery from his pneumonia. He is still taking medication for his blood clots, but he is otherwise healthy. Roker is a strong and resilient man, and he is confident that he will be back on the air soon.