Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized for two weeks with double pneumonia, remains in stable condition, according to the Vatican. Officials confirmed on Saturday that there has been no repeat of the breathing crisis he suffered the previous day.
The 88-year-old pontiff continues to receive oxygen but is free of fever, is alert, and has been eating and praying. “The clinical conditions of the Holy Father have remained stable,” the Vatican said in its evening update. His blood circulation remains steady, and doctors found no signs of leukocytosis, a high white blood cell count that could indicate an infection. However, officials noted that his prognosis remains “reserved,” meaning they are still closely monitoring his condition.
Health Concerns After Sudden Worsening
Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 with bronchitis, which later developed into pneumonia in both lungs. Last weekend, the Vatican reported that his condition had become “critical” due to a serious respiratory attack that required blood transfusions. This sparked global concern for the leader of the Catholic Church, which has nearly 1.4 billion followers.
Although the pope’s health had been gradually improving, Friday brought another scare. The Vatican revealed that he experienced a sudden breathing crisis caused by bronchospasm, leading to vomiting and inhalation of stomach contents into his lungs. This made his pneumonia worse and raised fresh concerns about his recovery.
Dr. Andrea Ungar, a geriatrics professor at the University of Florence, explained that this type of complication requires stronger antibiotics, ventilation support, and respiratory therapy. “The first 24 to 48 hours are crucial in determining whether his condition worsens or stabilizes,” he said. Dr. Ungar also predicted that even in the best-case scenario, the pope would need to stay in the hospital for at least 10 more days.
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Global Prayers for the Pope
As news of Pope Francis’s health struggles spread, Catholics and well-wishers around the world began praying for his recovery. On Saturday, despite the rainy weather, pilgrims gathered outside Gemelli Hospital, lighting candles and praying near a statue of former Pope John Paul II.
“I’m very sad,” said Assunta Pandolfi, a retiree from Rome, “but I trust that the pope will pull through.”
A group of nuns also visited the hospital to pray for the pope’s health. Meanwhile, handwritten messages, posters created by children, and balloons bearing his image were placed outside as signs of encouragement.
“The whole world is worried,” said Cristina Funaro, pointing to the large number of international media crews stationed outside the hospital.
Concerns Over Pope’s Future Leadership
Despite his illness, Pope Francis has continued working from his hospital room on the 10th floor of Gemelli Hospital. However, his extended absence has led to renewed discussions about his ability to continue leading the Church.
He has not made a public appearance since his hospitalization, marking the longest medical stay of his papacy. On Sunday, for the third consecutive week, he will miss his traditional Angelus prayer. Instead, the Vatican will release a written message.
Pope Francis, who had part of one lung removed in his youth, has faced increasing health challenges in recent years. In 2021, he underwent colon surgery, and in 2023, he had a hernia operation. He also suffers from chronic knee and hip pain, which has forced him to use a wheelchair.
While Pope Francis has said in the past that he could resign if his health made it impossible for him to lead, he has also emphasized that he does not currently see the need to step down.
Before his hospitalization, the pope maintained a demanding schedule, especially with preparations underway for the Church’s upcoming Jubilee Year. This major religious event is expected to bring millions of pilgrims to Rome and the Vatican.
Medical experts warn that given his age and health history, his recovery will take time. While the Vatican remains hopeful, Pope Francis’s health remains under close watch as Catholics around the world continue to pray for his well-being.