As he appeared on the second-floor balcony in a wheelchair, the frail Pope greeted hundreds gathered below, thanking a woman holding yellow flowers. His voice was notably weak after struggling with pneumonia and other respiratory issues that had caused great concern among followers and the medical community. Cheerful crowds responded with chants of "Francesco" and "Long live the pope," as Francis waved back.

Weeks earlier, the Pope experienced critical health challenges due to severe pneumonia affecting both lungs. His medical team reported that he received intensive drug therapy and oxygen treatments, leading to a gradual improvement. Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who oversees the Pope's care, confirmed that he had faced life-threatening moments but was now on a path to recovery thanks to dedicated medical intervention.