Pope Francis, who has been battling double pneumonia in the hospital for nearly three weeks, remains stable throughout the day and has not encountered any new breathing crises, according to the Vatican.
The 88-year-old was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14th with a severe respiratory infection that has led to additional complications, which doctors are still working to address.
The Vatican reported that the pope spent the day sitting in an armchair and resumed some of his work activities.
He will again receive non-invasive ventilation overnight.
Yesterday’s health update was more optimistic, stating that the pope remained stable throughout the day with no new breathing issues.
However, his doctors reiterated that his prognosis remains “guarded,” indicating that he is not yet out of danger.
‘Worried about him’
“I think it’s serious, very serious. Naturally, we are all quite worried about him,” said Liana Cardozo, a tourist from Brazil, in St. Peter’s Square.
The pope has not been seen in public since he was admitted to the hospital, marking his longest absence since the beginning of his papacy 12 years ago. His doctors have not specified how long the treatment may continue.
Francis’ extended absence has fueled speculation, even among senior cardinals, that he might follow in the footsteps of his predecessor Benedict XVI and resign.
Nevertheless, biographers and friends of the pontiff have described him as a “fighter,” suggesting he has no intentions of resigning.
His illness has already caused the pope to miss several Church events, including a service on March 5 known as Ash Wednesday, which signifies the beginning of a 40-day period leading up to Easter Sunday, a service he typically presides over.
Francis has faced multiple health challenges over the past two years and is particularly susceptible to lung infections due to having had pleurisy in his youth and undergoing surgery to remove part of one lung.
Double pneumonia is a severe infection affecting both lungs, capable of causing inflammation and scarring that can hinder breathing.
