Pope Francis: Healthy progress, but worries remain!

Pope Francis: Healthy progress, but worries remain!

Pope Francis' health has caused great concern. The 88-year-old pontiff has been in Rome's Gemelli Hospital since February 14, where he is being treated for severe pneumonia. Over the weekend he experienced a “prolonged” respiratory crisis, as a result of which he required oxygen and a blood transfusion. Despite stabilization last week, the situation remains critical, the Vatican said in a statement. Francis had a quiet night, but on some days he refused breakfast and spent a lot of time in an armchair, something like that Stern.de describes. The Vatican also stated that the treating doctors cannot make any predictions about the course of the disease.

Treatments and support

The treating doctors have so far supported Francis with oxygen therapy and light motor exercises. On Sunday, the pope thanked his medical team in a written message and called for prayers for peace in the world. During his stay in the hospital, he continued to carry out his spiritual tasks partly via video, as he cannot personally attend the Roman Curia's retreats. The Vatican has also suspended evening prayers for his recovery in St. Peter's Square, causing even greater concern among the faithful, he said Kathpress.at.

The global response to the pope's health problems is intense. Many people are praying for him and gatherings have formed outside the hospital with believers singing songs and laying candles. Concern extends to the highest political circles, with statements from the White House that US President Donald Trump is also aware of the pope's situation. Speculation about a possible resignation was rejected by senior church representatives.