Pope Francis: State of health remains fragile – concern is growing!

Pope Francis: State of health remains fragile – concern is growing!

Pope Francis' health remains critical and worrying. The 88-year-old, who has been treated in hospital since February 14th, is suffering from severe bilateral pneumonia. After several episodes of acute respiratory distress, most recently on Monday, the pope is receiving supplemental oxygen during the day and has been dependent on mechanical ventilation at times over the past week, Vatican information confirms. Despite these setbacks, his condition has stabilized and he continues to receive physical therapy support. As the Small newspaper reported that the Pope spent a quiet night and followed the Roman Curia's Lenten retreat via video link.

Concerns and prayers

The last few weeks have been a great challenge for the church leader. Doctors had already noted that Pope Francis' condition is considered "fragile" and the possibility of further complications cannot be ruled out. There was positive news on Tuesday when he was awake and cooperative again after undergoing a bronchoscopy to clear secretions from the bronchi. These procedures have become necessary to support his breathing, as ZDF reported. The Pope also stayed in his hospital room to rest and pray.

The faithful show great concern and gather daily in front of the Gemelli Clinic in Rome to pray for his recovery. A service for the pope is held every evening in St. Peter's Square in Rome, led by senior churchmen, while he has been represented by other church officials at various recent events. The hope for a speedy improvement remains, although the Vatican is reluctant to make any predictions about the course of the disease.