Pope Francis, the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church, remains hospitalized for over a week as he battles pneumonia. The Vatican has confirmed that this marks the third-longest hospital stay for the Pope since his election in 2013. Known for his vulnerability to respiratory infections, Francis is undergoing therapy that requires time to be effective, as stated by surgeon Sergio Alfieri. Despite his health challenges, the Pope continues to fulfill some of his papal duties from the clinic.
In recent developments, Pope Francis has continued to sign off on decisions while in the hospital. Notably, he maintained his daily phone call with Rev. Gabriel Romanelli and Father Yusuf Asad in Gaza City, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his role. Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni confirmed that although the Pope's condition appeared promising earlier in the week, he has experienced an asthmatic respiratory crisis that required high-flow oxygen therapy.
"This morning Pope Francis presented with an asthmatic respiratory crisis of prolonged magnitude, which also required the application of oxygen at high flows." – Vatican
This current health scare adds to a series of medical issues faced by Pope Francis. In 2021, he underwent surgery to remove part of his colon due to diverticulitis. Earlier this year, he was hospitalized with bronchitis. Additionally, in recent months, two falls resulted in a bruised chin and an injured arm. As a young man, Francis suffered a severe case of pneumonia that necessitated the removal of part of one lung.
The Pope's unexpected illness has prompted an outpouring of support from around the world. Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited him in the hospital for 20 minutes on Wednesday. She remarked on his enduring spirit and humor despite his health challenges.
"We joked as always. He hasn’t lost his proverbial sense of humor." – Giorgia Meloni
As Francis continues his recovery, worshipers have gathered in candle-lit churches globally to pray for his steady recuperation. Rodomina Valdez, one of many faithful supporters, expressed her desire for the Pope's swift recovery through prayer and penance.
"But what we can do is put him in our prayers and offer fasting or in any case, some penance." – Rodomina Valdez
The Pope's condition has unfortunately led to him missing the delivery of the weekly Angelus prayer for only the third time in his nearly 12-year papacy. Supporters like Gaetano Bavagnini are hopeful for his return to good health and leadership.
"I hope he gets well soon and that he can get back to his role. He is an extraordinary man and an extraordinary pope." – Gaetano Bavagnini
