In Rome, Pope Francis has reached the three-week mark in his stay at Gemelli hospital due to a severe case of double pneumonia. At 88 years old, his condition remains stable as he continues to receive treatment, though there have been no significant signs of improvement. This hospital stay has highlighted the pontiff’s fragile health.
The Vatican reported that Francis managed to spend 20 minutes in the hospital chapel, devoting time to prayer and light work amid his scheduled periods of rest and respiratory therapy. He relies on high-flow supplemental oxygen to aid his breathing during the day, and uses a noninvasive mechanical ventilation mask at night.
Medical experts not involved in his direct care express concerns due to the lack of improvement after three weeks of hospitalization. The extended stay raises the risk of secondary infections. Earlier this week, Francis experienced episodes of acute respiratory failure, which led to bronchoscopies to remove mucus from his lungs.
Dr. Andrew Chadwick, a respiratory specialist, commented on the situation, stating that continuous hospitalization without significant progress is worrisome and indicates a potentially serious condition. However, Dr. Jeffrey Millstein observed that, despite the lack of significant recovery, the pope’s ability to breathe for part of the day with high-flow oxygen is a hopeful sign, though the overall situation remains unstable and meticulous care is necessary.
With an eye towards the future, experts suggest that avoiding any further complications is crucial. Incremental progress is a positive sign, and the key is managing current issues without experiencing new setbacks.
On Thursday, Pope Francis offered a strong indication of his current state through an audio message broadcast to the faithful in St. Peter’s Square. In the message, spoken in his native Spanish, he thanked everyone for their prayers amid noticeable labored breathing. His weakened voice emphasized the struggle he faces in maintaining communication with his followers.
In addressing the supporters gathered at St. Peter’s Square, Francis expressed his gratitude: “I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health from the square, I accompany you from here. May God bless you and the Virgin protect you. Thank you.”
This message served multiple purposes, addressing rumors and conspiracy theories about his health status while expressing gratitude to those offering prayers. Francis, who previously mentioned feeling as if he is being supported by collective prayers, showed resolve through this public engagement, despite his evident physical challenges.
Francis’s chronic lung issues are well-documented; he had part of a lung removed in his youth. The Vatican has been issuing regular updates on his condition, although no new photos or videos have been released since his admission to the hospital on February 14 for what initially appeared to be bronchitis.
The infection escalated into complex respiratory challenges, including double pneumonia, marking his longest absence during his papacy and casting uncertainty on the future of his leadership.
