Answer: Coccidioides fungus
Step-by-step explanation:
Coccidioides fungus belongs to the kingdom FUNGUS, it is found in soil. The RETIREE must have INHALED the spores of this fungus, as its spores are spread by wind and weather, particularly in hot, dry climates; and thereby suffering from a condition called Coccidioidomycosis.
It mainly leads to permanent lung damage.