Pope Francis is recovering well from pneumonia and double pneumonia, two of his closest advisers said on Friday. Archbishop Edgar Peña Parra and Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández reported that the 88-year-old pope is in good humor and serene during their visits at Gemelli hospital in Rome.
The Vatican press office confirmed that Francis’ overall condition has remained stable, with slight improvements in respiratory and physical therapy. The pope’s reliance on high-flow supplemental oxygen has decreased, and he no longer needs a mechanical ventilation mask at night.
Fernández described a “new stage” opening in Francis’ 12-year pontificate, saying the pope is expected to bring surprises when released. He noted that Francis had resisted going to hospital due to bronchitis but eventually agreed after being threatened with his personal secretaries quitting. Fernández expressed optimism about Francis’ recovery and potential changes in his behavior.
The pope’s health has been a concern for some time, particularly given his history of respiratory illnesses and as a young man having part of one lung removed. However, he is determined to use the time he has left wisely rather than prioritizing self-care.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/pope-francis-pneumonia-recovery-hospital-rome-vatican-1512ef034915a094aa51d992cc4ff80f