Pope Francis will leave the Gemelli hospital in Rome on Sunday after five weeks of treatment. Doctors confirmed that the Pope must rest for at least two months at his Vatican residence. He entered the hospital on 14 February with a severe lung infection, which later turned into double pneumonia.
Doctors Share Details of Pope’s Health Struggles
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the Pope’s lead physician, said the Pope faced two life-threatening episodes. These events put his health at risk, but the Pope never required intubation. He stayed conscious and responsive throughout the treatment. While he has not fully recovered, doctors confirmed he no longer suffers from pneumonia. His condition is now stable.
“We are happy to share that the Holy Father will return home tomorrow,” Dr. Alfieri said on Saturday.
Pope Plans to Deliver Blessing Before Returning to the Vatican
Before leaving the hospital, Pope Francis plans to give a blessing from his hospital window. He has not spoken publicly since entering the hospital but will address the faithful on Sunday. Doctors explained that elderly patients with double pneumonia often take longer to regain their voice.
Cardinal Victor Fernandez explained that high-flow oxygen therapy can dry the throat and affect speech. Reuters reported that the Pope must practice speaking clearly again. Doctors said he might return to work soon if his recovery continues at this pace.
Positive Signs of Improvement
On Friday, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis’s breathing and mobility had greatly improved. He now sleeps without mechanical ventilation, using only a nasal oxygen tube. During the day, he relies less on high-flow oxygen than before.
The public saw the Pope only once since his hospitalization, in a photo of him praying in the chapel. Earlier this month, he also sent an audio message thanking Catholics for their prayers.
A History of Health Challenges
Pope Francis has led the Roman Catholic Church for nearly twelve years. He has faced health challenges throughout his life, including lung surgery at age 21. This surgery made him more vulnerable to respiratory infections, like the one he recently fought. Despite these challenges, Pope Francis continues to serve the Church with dedication.
As the Pope prepares to return to the Vatican, his recovery offers hope to his followers.