Pope Francis appeared at the window of Rome’s Gemelli hospital, offering a blessing for the first time since his admission on February 14. Shortly after, the 88-year-old pontiff was discharged, with doctors advising at least two months of rest at the Vatican.
According to Dr. Sergio Alfieri, one of his treating physicians, Pope Francis experienced two critical health episodes during his five-week stay, where his life was at risk. However, he was never intubated and remained alert throughout. While not fully recovered, he no longer has pneumonia and is in stable condition.
Dr. Alfieri noted that double pneumonia can weaken a patient’s voice, particularly in the elderly, and it will take time for the Pope’s voice to return to normal.
Cardinal Victor Fernandez previously stated that high-flow oxygen therapy had dried out the Pope’s throat, requiring him to relearn how to speak. Doctors believe that if his recovery continues to progress, he will soon be able to resume his duties.
Since his hospitalization, Pope Francis has made only limited public appearances. Last week, the Vatican released a photograph of him praying in a hospital chapel, and earlier this month, an audio message in Spanish was played in St. Peter’s Square, where he thanked the faithful for their prayers despite his breathless voice.
Now in his 12th year as leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis has faced several health challenges throughout his life, including the removal of part of his lung at age 21, which makes him more susceptible to infections.
