Pope Francis Continues His Fight Against Pneumonia While Hospitalized
Pope Francis has spent his ninth night in the hospital, according to a statement from the Vatican Sunday, following a serious respiratory attack that raised concerns about his health. The 88-year-old Pontiff is currently receiving oxygen through a tube in his nostrils as he battles double pneumonia. The Vatican had previously communicated that the situation was critical on Saturday, highlighting a prolonged asthma-like attack that required blood transfusions due to a low platelet count.
Despite these challenges, the Vatican provided a positive update this morning, indicating that the night passed peacefully and that Francis was able to rest. Sources close to the Vatican noted that there was no recurrence of the crisis experienced the previous day. However, he remains under close observation while continuing to receive oxygen through a cannula.
In lieu of his regular Sunday Angelus prayer, which is typically delivered from a window of St. Peter's Square, Pope Francis shared a message thanks to his medical staff. "I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, as necessary treatment is ongoing. Rest is also part of the therapy," he stated. He concluded the message with a request for prayers.
During his hospitalization, which began on February 14 due to bronchitis, Pope Francis has seen fluctuating health. Initially reported to be alert and spending time in an armchair, updates from the Vatican have painted a more concerning picture, revealing he is suffering more than in previous days. The Pope experienced a significant asthmatic respiratory crisis that called for high-flow oxygen, further complicating his recovery process. Daily blood tests have highlighted the need for additional care due to thrombocytopenia, a condition that can pose significant health risks.
The media in Italy has reflected these concerns, with outlets like Corriere della Sera and La Repubblica noting their worries regarding the Pope's situation, labeling it as a precarious moment for the Vatican.
Prayers and well-wishes have flooded not only in Rome but globally. Outside the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic, hundreds gathered to pray for Pope Francis. Nuns sang hymns in front of a statue of former Pope John Paul II, as devotees expressed their hopes for the Pope's swift recovery.
Although confined to his hospital bed, Pope Francis was missed at the Jubilee 2025 Mass at St. Peter's Basilica, where a senior prelate led proceedings in his absence. Faithful gathered to express their support, sharing prayers and touching a lifesize cardboard cutout of the Pope.
Despite his ongoing health battles, Francis remains committed to his role, though questions about his capacity to fulfill papal duties linger. His struggles are felt keenly by a congregation that recognizes his deep commitment to service, even stating, "long live the pope" in hopes of his recovery.
The Pope's health woes come on the heels of a demanding schedule that notably included a lengthy trip across the Asia-Pacific in September. He has also faced multiple health issues over recent years, including surgeries for his colon and hernia, compounded by concerns regarding his weight and persistent pain that has left him reliant on a wheelchair. This current situation has sparked renewed discussions about the future of the papacy, as any deterioration in health may prompt reconsideration of his ability to serve.
As the world watches and prays for Pope Francis, his resilience and dedication to his role remain a testament to his faith and the important position he holds in the Catholic Church.
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