Pope Francis, who has been battling pneumonia for the past 17 days, remains in stable condition at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The 88-year-old pontiff, who was admitted on February 14 with respiratory complications, expressed gratitude to well-wishers for their prayers and support in a written message released on Sunday.
Pope’s Health Update
The Vatican confirmed on Saturday that the pope’s condition had stabilized following an isolated breathing crisis the previous day. The double pneumonia diagnosis, which caused inflammation and scarring in both lungs, had made breathing difficult for Francis.
In a message replacing his usual Sunday prayer with pilgrims, the pope wrote, “I would like to thank you for the prayers. I feel all your affection and closeness and … I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people.”
Meetings at the Hospital
Despite his hospitalization, Pope Francis has continued working and overseeing Vatican affairs. On Sunday, he met with Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin and his deputy. However, details of their discussions were not disclosed. The pope had also met the officials earlier on February 24.
Medical Condition and Treatment
A Vatican official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that Pope Francis is eating normally, moving about his hospital room, and continuing his treatment. On Friday, he experienced a respiratory constriction similar to an asthma attack, but his blood circulation remained stable, and his white blood cell count showed no signs of a worsening infection.
The Vatican reported that the pope is receiving non-invasive mechanical ventilation, alternating with high-flow oxygen therapy. While his condition is improving, doctors are maintaining a cautious prognosis.
Francis’ Health History and Public Absence
Pope Francis has faced multiple health challenges in recent years. His susceptibility to lung infections stems from a previous battle with pleurisy as a young adult, which led to the partial removal of one lung.
This hospitalization marks his longest absence from public view since the beginning of his papacy in 2013. The Vatican has not provided an exact timeline for his discharge, and further updates on his condition are expected in the coming days.
Sources By Agencies
