Pope Francis, after a significant health scare, is gradually recovering, showing signs of improved movement and clear speech as he continues to convalesce at the Vatican.
Pope Francis Shows Steady Recovery After Hospitalization
Pope Francis Shows Steady Recovery After Hospitalization
Vatican Reports Positive Progress in Pope Francis' Health Following Pneumonia Treatment
Pope Francis’ health has reportedly improved steadily since his release from a lengthy hospital stay, as revealed by the Vatican on Tuesday. The 88-year-old pontiff was hospitalized for 38 days at Policlinico A. Gemelli in Rome due to pneumonia and additional infections. During his treatment, he suffered from severe episodes that briefly left doctors doubtful about his survival. However, he was discharged on March 23 and returned to the Vatican guesthouse to recuperate.
A recent update indicated that the pope's blood tests have returned to normal levels, and an X-ray has shown slight improvements in his lung condition. While he still requires oxygen for most of the day, he can manage brief periods without it. The Vatican highlighted that physical and respiratory therapy sessions are yielding positive results, leading to better vocal clarity and increased mobility for Francis.
Since leaving the hospital, the pope has refrained from public appearances except for a brief greeting from his balcony, where his weakened state was visibly apparent. Following medical advice, he has prioritized rest and recovery. Notably, he has not welcomed any visitors but continues to celebrate Mass with fellow priests and fulfill some work responsibilities from his desk.
In recent days, Francis has made significant ecclesiastical decisions, including the canonization of Venezuela’s first female saint and the appointment of new bishops, alongside offering prayers for earthquake victims in Southeast Asia. Reflecting on his health journey, he invited the faithful to embrace the Lenten period as one of healing, expressing, "I too am experiencing it this way, in my soul and in my body," during a written Angelus prayer published online.
Elisabetta Povoledo is a seasoned journalist based in Rome, focusing on Italy, the Vatican, and surrounding cultural topics.
A recent update indicated that the pope's blood tests have returned to normal levels, and an X-ray has shown slight improvements in his lung condition. While he still requires oxygen for most of the day, he can manage brief periods without it. The Vatican highlighted that physical and respiratory therapy sessions are yielding positive results, leading to better vocal clarity and increased mobility for Francis.
Since leaving the hospital, the pope has refrained from public appearances except for a brief greeting from his balcony, where his weakened state was visibly apparent. Following medical advice, he has prioritized rest and recovery. Notably, he has not welcomed any visitors but continues to celebrate Mass with fellow priests and fulfill some work responsibilities from his desk.
In recent days, Francis has made significant ecclesiastical decisions, including the canonization of Venezuela’s first female saint and the appointment of new bishops, alongside offering prayers for earthquake victims in Southeast Asia. Reflecting on his health journey, he invited the faithful to embrace the Lenten period as one of healing, expressing, "I too am experiencing it this way, in my soul and in my body," during a written Angelus prayer published online.
Elisabetta Povoledo is a seasoned journalist based in Rome, focusing on Italy, the Vatican, and surrounding cultural topics.
