After a five-week hospitalization for pneumonia and a near-fatal polymicrobial infection, Pope Francis made a surprise public appearance at the Vatican, greeting crowds in St. Peter’s Square. His improved condition, though still requiring a wheelchair and nasal cannula, showed increased mobility and vocal strength compared to his previous public appearance two weeks prior. The unannounced appearance followed a morning mass and confession, bringing cheers from the assembled worshippers. The 88-year-old pontiff’s doctors previously stated that a two-month recovery period would be necessary.
Read More
After a five-week hospitalization for pneumonia and a severe respiratory infection, Pope Francis was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli hospital. His medical team mandated two additional months of rest at the Vatican, advising against strenuous activities and large meetings. While appearing briefly to greet well-wishers, the 88-year-old pontiff, who had experienced several critical respiratory crises, showed signs of recovery but remains in convalescence. His doctors described the infection as complex, involving multiple microorganisms, and emphasized the importance of the extended rest period for his complete healing.
Read More
Pope Francis, 88, will be discharged from Gemelli Hospital on Sunday after over five weeks of treatment for bronchitis. His condition was twice life-threatening, requiring high-flow oxygen, but has stabilized for the past two weeks. A “protected discharge” mandates continued medication, potential oxygen use, and at least two months of rest before resuming normal activities. While the Vatican maintains he continued his duties, this period of recovery will limit his public engagements.
Read More
Pope Francis, hospitalized for over five weeks due to severe respiratory infection and double pneumonia, will be discharged from Gemelli Hospital on Sunday. While his condition is now stable, doctors have mandated at least two months of rest and recuperation, noting the severity of his illness and the resulting lung damage. The Pope will appear at his hospital window to offer a blessing before his departure, but future engagements remain uncertain due to the necessary convalescence period. This hospitalization marks the most serious health crisis of his papacy.
Read More
In this letter to *Corriere della Sera*’s editor-in-chief, Pope Francis expresses gratitude for support received during his recent illness, a time when the absurdity of war became even more apparent. He urges a renewed focus on peace and disarmament, emphasizing the power of words to build or destroy. The Pope calls for revitalized diplomacy, stronger international organizations, and a religious contribution to fostering fraternity and justice. Ultimately, he advocates for a united effort toward peace, requiring commitment, reflection, and careful communication.
Read More
Pope Francis experienced two episodes of acute respiratory failure due to significant mucus buildup in his airways, necessitating two bronchoscopies to remove secretions and supplemental oxygen. While alert and cooperative, his prognosis remains reserved, with doctors emphasizing the crucial next few days for his recovery from pneumonia. The pope’s condition is described as complex, highlighting the potential for further respiratory crises and the need for a lengthy convalescence period, even if he stabilizes.
Read More
Pope Francis experienced a sudden respiratory episode requiring mechanical ventilation due to aspiration following vomiting; however, he remained alert. Though not intubated, he is currently wearing a mask and his condition, while showing some improvement earlier this week, remains precarious. This hospitalization, his fourth and longest, follows previous lung-related illnesses and a recent diagnosis of bronchitis and pneumonia. Doctors anticipate a clearer prognosis within the next 48 hours.
Read More
Pope Francis remains in critical but stable condition, battling pneumonia and a complex lung infection, with early kidney failure developing. Despite this, he remains alert and attended Mass, receiving supplemental oxygen and undergoing treatment. While his prognosis remains guarded due to the severity of his illness and his age, prayers and well-wishes have poured in from around the globe. His condition has spurred discussion regarding potential incapacitation and the possibility of his resignation.
Read More
Following a week-long hospitalization for pneumonia, Pope Francis experienced a serious respiratory crisis, resulting in a more critical condition than previously reported. While remaining alert, the 88-year-old pontiff received blood transfusions to address anemia and is expected to remain hospitalized for at least another week. Although his condition is not currently life-threatening, doctors have cautioned that sepsis remains a potential complication. The Pope’s medical team is providing treatment for the pneumonia, along with associated bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
Read More
Pope Francis remains in critical condition due to a severe asthmatic respiratory crisis requiring high-flow oxygen, complicating his existing pneumonia and lung infection. The 88-year-old pontiff also received blood transfusions to address low platelet counts and anemia. While alert and conscious, his prognosis is described as reserved, and the risk of sepsis remains a major concern. The Vatican has denied rumors of a potential resignation.
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker