Pope Francis’ Health Shows Steady Improvement, Vatican Confirms.
Pope Francis is continuing to recover well following his recent hospitalisation, with noticeable improvements in his speech and mobility, the Vatican announced on Tuesday.
The 88-year-old pontiff spent 38 days at Rome’s Policlinico A. Gemelli hospital, receiving treatment for pneumonia and other infections. His health crisis included severe breathing difficulties and a bronchial spasm that led doctors to fear for his life. However, he made a remarkable recovery and was discharged on 23rd March to convalesce at his Vatican guesthouse.
Recent medical tests have shown promising results, with the Vatican confirming that the pope’s blood work is normal and an X-ray has revealed a “slight improvement” in his lungs. While he continues to use oxygen throughout the day, he is now able to manage brief periods without it. Additionally, ongoing respiratory and motor therapy have contributed to his growing strength, as his movements have become more fluid and his voice more stable.
Since leaving the hospital, Pope Francis has not made any public appearances apart from briefly greeting well-wishers from a hospital balcony upon his discharge. That moment highlighted the impact of his illness, as he appeared frail, with a weak voice and laboured breathing. Despite doctors recommending at least two months of rest, the pope has remained engaged in his duties.
He continues to celebrate Mass each morning with fellow priests and dedicates part of his day to administrative work. In the past week, he has approved the canonisation of Venezuela’s first female saint, as well as the first saint for Papua New Guinea. He has also appointed new bishops and extended prayers for those affected by a devastating earthquake in Southeast Asia.
During his traditional Sunday Angelus prayer, Pope Francis reflected on his condition, likening his journey of recovery to the Lenten season’s call for healing. “I too am experiencing it this way, in my soul and in my body,” he shared in a written message published by the Vatican.
As he continues his convalescence, the Vatican remains optimistic about his recovery, with many faithful around the world offering prayers and well wishes for his health.
