In brief
The Vatican announced that Pope Francis will be discharged from Rome's Gemelli hospital on Sunday after an extended recovery from double pneumonia that lasted over five weeks. The 88-year-old pontiff has been undergoing treatment since his hospitalization on February 14, and while his health is improving, he requires a minimum of two months of rest to recuperate fully.
In a limited public appearance during his hospital stay, a recent photo released by the Vatican showcased him praying, indicating his spiritual resilience amid health challenges. The Vatican remarked that although the Pope's overall condition has stabilized, there are concerns about him potentially needing to "relearn to speak" due to the extended use of high-flow oxygen therapy. Cardinal Victor Fernandez, who oversees the Vatican's doctrinal office, provided an update on the Pope’s health, stating that while he is doing well, the high-flow oxygen has caused his vocal cords some distress.The Pope has moved away from mechanical ventilation at night and is currently relying on a small oxygen tube during the day. Earlier this month, an audio message of him speaking in Spanish was shared with the Catholic faithful, where he expressed gratitude for their prayers, though his voice was described as breathless. Despite ongoing health issues, including a history of lung problems, Cardinal Fernandez dismissed speculation regarding the possibility of the Pope resigning, drawing a contrast with his predecessor, Benedict XVI. When questioned about a potential return for Easter celebrations, the Cardinal remained noncommittal, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding the Pope's recovery timeline. Pope Francis has led the Roman Catholic Church for nearly 12 years and is a significant figure within the global Catholic community, underscoring the importance of his health and leadership during this time.
