Pope Francis is set to be discharged from a Roman hospital on Sunday, as his medical team has declared his condition significantly improved. After battling severe pneumonia in both lungs, which twice endangered his life, the pope will be transferred to the Vatican for a recovery period of at least two months. Doctors have advised that he undergo therapy and oxygen treatment to heal fully and resume regular activities, urging him to avoid gatherings and potential sources of infection, such as crowds and small children.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of the pope’s medical team, described Pope Francis as eager to return home. “He was very happy,” Dr. Alfieri remarked, noting the pope’s repeated inquiries about his discharge date. This positive development follows weeks of concern from Catholics globally, who have been gathering nightly for rosary prayers in St. Peter’s Square since February 25, led by cardinals, to pray for the pontiff’s recovery.
Admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14 with bronchitis, Pope Francis’s condition quickly escalated into severe pneumonia, complicated by a microbial tract infection. At the time, doctors expressed grave concerns, given his advanced age and existing chronic lung issues. During these critical weeks, the pope faced an asthmatic crisis, mild kidney failure, and a bronchial spasm, which led to respiratory complications after inhaling his vomit following a coughing episode. He relied on noninvasive mechanical ventilation at night and high-flow oxygen therapy during the day as part of his treatment regimen.
By March 10, Vatican officials announced a pivotal improvement in Pope Francis’s condition, stating he was no longer in imminent danger. Though his health had stabilized enough to reduce oxygen therapy gradually, doctors recommended further inpatient care before his eventual release. Last Sunday’s release of the first photo of the pope since his hospitalization and the announcement of a potential appearance on the Gemelli hospital balcony to give the Angelus blessing indicate the strides in his recovery.
Despite being frail before his hospitalization, Pope Francis remained committed to his demanding schedule. Having had part of a lung removed as a young man, he has recently dealt with a series of health challenges, including reliance on a wheelchair or cane. The pope had already been hospitalized earlier in 2023 for bronchitis and later underwent surgery related to a previous hernia operation linked to colon surgery in 2021. Winter months have historically been tough on him, as bronchitis has frequently interrupted his duties, yet he persistently carried on with his tasks, further intensified by the approaching 2025 Jubilee Year.
As he continues his recuperation in the Vatican, the concern and prayers of the worldwide Catholic community remain steadfast. Pope Francis’s recovery journey underscores the resilience that has marked his papacy, allowing followers to hope for a swift return to his spiritual leadership during this crucial period leading to the Jubilee, a significant event of faith and renewal within the Roman Catholic Church. Pope Francis’s resilience and widespread support from the Catholic community underline the global importance of his role, as faithful followers worldwide look forward to his full recovery and return to active ministry.
Original Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/22/world/europe/pope-francis-health.html
Category : Popes,Pneumonia,Francis,Roman Catholic Church
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Publish Date: 2025-03-22 23:33:00
