Pope Francis faces prolonged hospital stay amid health battle
It has been a month since Pope Francis was hospitalized at the Gemelli Polyclinic. Although his health has slightly improved, he still requires intensive treatment. It is not known when he will be discharged.
Pope Francis has been at the Gemelli Polyclinic since February 14, when he was diagnosed with acute bronchitis. Initially, a long hospital stay was not anticipated, but the situation became complicated after bilateral pneumonia was diagnosed. Pope's health condition was described as critical, necessitating intensive medical care.
Pope's health condition
According to the latest reports, Pope Francis's health has slightly improved. Doctors confirmed this based on X-ray examinations. Nonetheless, his condition remains complex, and treatment needs to continue. Currently, the Pope is undergoing oxygen therapy and respiratory and motor physiotherapy.
It is unclear when the Pope will leave the hospital and return to the Vatican. The recovery process might be lengthy, and doctors are waiting for further indicators of health improvement. Therefore, there are no plans yet regarding his participation in the Holy Week events.
Challenges for the Vatican
There is also uncertainty regarding the planned canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis on April 27. The Pope was supposed to declare him a saint, which is a traditional role in the case of canonizations. In the meantime, spiritual exercises for the Roman Curia are being conducted in the Vatican, which Francis is following remotely from the hospital.
The Preacher of the Papal Household, Father Roberto Pasolini, during the exercises emphasized the need for the Pope's long-term treatment to avoid a too-rapid return to duties. He noted that people sometimes rush their recovery after treatment and illness, emphasizing the importance of patience.
As reported by PAP, on Friday, in the Pauline Chapel at the Vatican, Cardinal Pietro Parolin will hold a mass for the Pope's health. Members of the diplomatic corps initiated this initiative, and the mass will take place the day after the 12th anniversary of Francis's election as Pope.
