At 88 years old, Pope Francis continues to encounter serious health issues, with the Vatican providing updates on his condition after episodes of respiratory failure and hospitalization.
Pope Francis Faces Health Crisis: Alert but under Medical Care
Pope Francis Faces Health Crisis: Alert but under Medical Care
Pope Francis experiences acute respiratory failure, raising concerns among followers as he remains hospitalized.
Pope Francis has experienced a concerning health setback as he suffers from acute respiratory failure, according to the latest information from the Vatican. Doctors were compelled to intervene on Monday afternoon to clear mucus from his lungs. Despite this, the 88-year-old pontiff remains "alert, focused, and cooperative." His health has now taken a serious turn for the third time since being admitted to the hospital 18 days ago due to pneumonia.
Earlier on Friday, the Pope had faced a significant breathing crisis that resulted in vomiting. Reports claim that he initially responded positively to oxygen therapy, leading Vatican officials to state that he was no longer requiring non-invasive mechanical ventilation but rather high-flow oxygen therapy. However, following Monday's episodes, he has had to revert to mechanical assistance for his breathing.
Due to his deteriorating health, Pope Francis has been unable to deliver his customary Angelus prayer in person for three consecutive weeks, with the Vatican opting to publish his written messages instead, drafted from his hospital room. In one such message, the Pope expressed gratitude towards those praying for him, including his medical caretakers.
As the cornerstone of Lent approaches, Pope Francis will miss the traditional mass and procession this Wednesday that begins the six-week journey to Easter. Each evening, hundreds of supporters have gathered in St Peter's Square to pray for him. Many were seen holding rosary beads, with some expressing their deep concern for his well-being.
Javier, a Romanian priest, articulated the sentiments of many, sharing his worry about the pontiff’s condition while still holding onto hope. Patricia, a Spanish Catholic, was present with her family, reflecting on the profound changes Pope Francis has brought to the Church, particularly for marginalized communities.
Pope Francis had initially been admitted to the hospital on February 14 after experiencing ongoing breathing difficulties. His diagnosis transitioned from bronchitis to pneumonia affecting both lungs, complicating his already fragile health. Having suffered from pleurisy in his youth and with a partial lung removal, the Pope faces increased vulnerability to pneumonia.
Despite the Vatican characterizing his condition as stable, sources reveal that it remains complex and precarious, necessitating ongoing caution from his medical team.
