VATICAN (ROME): Pope Francis is still in a weak condition as he receives treatment for double pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The Vatican confirmed that he had serious breathing problems and needed high-flow oxygen. Even though he is feeling tired, he stayed awake and spent most of the day sitting in a chair.
Serious Breathing Problems and Medical Treatment
Doctors say Pope Francis had a strong "asthma-like" breathing problem on Saturday morning, which needed urgent medical care. Blood tests later showed he has low platelet levels because of anaemia, so doctors gave him a blood transfusion.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who is leading his treatment, reassured people, saying, "The Pope is not on a ventilator, but he is having trouble breathing, which makes it hard for him to move." Despite being sick, Pope Francis still kept his sense of humour. When a doctor greeted him, he jokingly replied, "Hello, Holy Son."
Risk of Infection Still a Concern
Doctors are keeping a deep watch on his health-issues. They are worried about the risk of infection. Dr. Alfieri explained, "There is a chance that germs from his lungs could get into his blood and cause sepsis." Right now, doctors are unsure when he will be well enough to leave the hospital.
Public Events Canceled, Vatican Updates
The Vatican has canceled all of Pope Francis’s public events, including his Sunday Angelus prayer. However, his message was still shared with the public. Officials gave a short update, saying, "The night was peaceful, and the Pope rested well." Even in the hospital, Pope Francis is trying to continue his duties as much as possible.
People Around the World Praying for Him
Many Catholics worldwide are praying for Pope Francis. Outside Gemelli Hospital, nuns and priests gathered to sing hymns and light candles. Fr. Don Wellison, Brazilian priest said - We are praying for Pope Francis, the Holy Father, and hope he recovers with God’s grace..
In Vatican City, many pilgrims expressed their worries. "I feel very sad. It’s hard to go on as if everything is normal," said Elvira Romana, an Italian resident. Another pilgrim, Matteo Licari from Sardinia, added, "We just hope he gets better and comes back soon."
Past Health Struggles
Pope Francis has faced serious health problems before. When he was young, doctors removed part of his lung due to pleurisy, making him more likely to have lung infections. In recent years, he has had surgery for his colon and a hernia. He also has hip and knee pain and often uses a wheelchair.
His busy schedule, including a long 12-day trip to the Asia-Pacific last year, has tested his health. His latest illness has sparked discussions about whether he can continue leading the Catholic Church’s 1.4 billion followers.
Despite these challenges, Pope Francis has dismissed talks of stepping down. While he knows his predecessor, Benedict XVI, resigned, he has made it clear that he sees his role as a lifelong mission.
For now, the world watches and prays for his recovery, hoping he will return home to Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican soon.