Pope Francis is showing stable progress in his recovery one month after being hospitalized due to bronchitis that developed into pneumonia.
According to a recent medical bulletin from the Vatican’s Holy See Press Office, "The clinical conditions of the Holy Father have remained stable, confirming the progress highlighted in the last week."
This update is the first in three days. While continuing his work from Gemelli Hospital, the Pope signed a three-year reform project aimed at making the Church more welcoming.
POPE FRANCIS NOW ‘OUT OF DANGER FROM DEATH’ AS HEALTH CONDITION CONTINUES TO IMPROVE
He has been spending his days praying and resting as he recovers. The Vatican has reported that the Pope is undergoing high-flow oxygen therapy, which is decreasing his need for non-invasive mechanical ventilation at night and enhancing his lung function.
The bulletin further noted, "The Holy Father still needs hospital medical therapy, motor and respiratory physiotherapy," which are showing "gradual improvements."
Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital on February 14, after his bronchitis worsened into double pneumonia. This week, the Vatican announced significant improvements in his health, stating he is now "out of danger of death."
The 88-year-old Pope spent time on Wednesday participating in spiritual exercises in the Vatican, receiving the Eucharist, praying, and completing his physical therapy.
POPE FRANCIS NOW EATING SOLID FOODS, ‘SHOWING SLIGHT GRADUAL IMPROVEMENTS,’ VATICAN SAYS
This week also marks the 12-year anniversary of Pope Francis’ election as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church.
His condition has been complicated due to a childhood surgery where part of his lung was removed after a pulmonary infection. A chest X-ray on Tuesday showed improvements noted by the medical staff, but his situation remains "complex," necessitating an extended hospital stay.
This week’s X-ray confirmed that his infection is clearing up. The Vatican has stated that updates on the Pope’s health will only be issued when there is new information available, with the next update expected mid-next week.
Earlier this month, the Pope released an audio message, thanking people for their well-wishes, which was played in St. Peter’s Square. However, for the past four Sundays, the Pope’s blessing from the window overlooking St. Peter’s Square has been delivered in text form only.
This week, the pontiff participated in Lenten spiritual exercises from the hospital and received get-well cards along with a cake to celebrate his 12th anniversary as pope.
As the Pope continues his treatment, nuns at the Vatican’s switchboard have been receiving calls from those concerned about his health. Sister Anthony, who manages operations near St. Peter’s Basilica, expressed, "They feel like children waiting to know about their father. We tell them to pray for him."
