Professor Stephen Hawking speech on the NHS

The transcript details a personal account of facing severe health challenges, including malnutrition and bronchopneumonia, which posed life-threatening risks. It describes a critical medical intervention in 2004 that led to a four-month hospital stay, ultimately saving the speaker's life. Despite these challenges, the speaker reflects on how disability has not hindered their scientific work or ability to lead a productive life.

What significant event occurred in 2004 related to the author's health?

How does the author feel about their disability in relation to their scientific work?