In Rome, Pope Francis is exhibiting minor yet encouraging signs of recovery amidst his ongoing treatment for pneumonia, affecting both of his lungs. According to a statement from the Vatican on Monday, the 88-year-old Pope is now able to spend some of his day using only standard supplemental oxygen administered through a nasal tube, rather than relying entirely on high flows of oxygen as before. Additionally, his medical team is attempting to reduce the amount of time he uses a noninvasive mechanical ventilation mask during the night, encouraging his lungs to function more independently.
Despite these positive developments, the Vatican has not provided a clear timeline for when the Pope may be discharged from Gemelli Hospital, nor confirmed his participation in any imminent events. Anticipated events include a visit from King Charles III and the celebration of Holy Week in April. According to the Vatican press office, when the Pope is taken in his wheelchair to his private chapel down the hall from his hospital room, he no longer requires attachment to the oxygen. It was during one such visit that a photograph was taken on Sunday, showing Pope Francis in prayer at the chapel altar without any nasal tubes visible, dressed in a Lenten purple stole.
This photograph marks the first visual of the Pope since his admission to Gemelli Hospital on February 14 due to a complex lung infection that escalated into double pneumonia. Previously, on March 6, he had conveyed his gratitude for the public’s prayers through an audio message, wherein his voice appeared soft and strained. These instances signify Pope Francis’ intent to manage how the public perceives his illness, avoiding it from becoming a sensational issue. Unlike the well-publicized illness battles of previous popes, Francis seems to prefer a more controlled public impression of his health.
His medical team has been open about the severity of his condition, following the Pope’s authorization to share relevant details. Regular medical updates have reflected this transparency, informing the public of his health status. The Vatican confirmed that the recent photo’s release had Pope Francis’ approval, although the image conceals his face, suggesting an intentional balance in how his current condition is visually conveyed.
Observers and well-wishers have widely commented on the Pope’s condition, with some expressing reassurance from the photo. The Rev. Enrico Antonio, a priest visiting from Pescara, expressed relief, noting the image confirms signs of improving health conditions. Sister Mary, a nun from Kenya, shared a similar sentiment, expressing joy and relief. However, some, like Benedetta Flagiello from Naples, are skeptical, questioning why the Pope hasn’t appeared at the hospital window, a gesture reminiscent of Pope John Paul II.
The initial three weeks of Pope Francis’ hospitalization were turbulent, marked by respiratory crises, mild kidney failure, and a severe cough that led to inhalation of vomit. Fortunately, his condition has stabilized over the past week, with doctors declaring he is no longer in immediate danger. With continuing stability, the Vatican has reduced the frequency of morning updates and anticipates the next medical bulletin by Wednesday.
