March 23, Colombo (LNW): Pope Francis is set to be discharged from hospital on Sunday after spending 38 days receiving treatment for a life-threatening case of pneumonia.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14 following a worsening bout of bronchitis, will now return to the Vatican, where he is expected to undergo an extended period of rest and rehabilitation.
Dr Sergio Alfieri, the lead coordinator of the Pope’s medical team, stated that Francis would require at least two months of convalescence at his residence in the Santa Marta hotel near St Peter’s Basilica.
He has been advised to avoid large gatherings and strenuous activities whilst he recovers. Despite these limitations, the Pope is expected to deliver a blessing from his hospital suite before his discharge—the first time he will be seen publicly since his admission.
Speculation regarding a possible papal resignation or funeral has been put to rest for now, as Francis has shown consistent improvement. His personal physician, Dr Luigi Carbone, confirmed that if his recovery continues at its current pace, he should eventually be able to resume his normal schedule.
However, given his history of chronic lung disease—stemming from the partial removal of one lung in his youth—the Pope remains vulnerable to respiratory complications, particularly in the colder months.
Medical experts revealed that Francis’ condition was initially complicated by a bacterial, viral, and fungal respiratory tract infection, which progressed into pneumonia affecting both lungs.
Blood tests further indicated anaemia, low platelet levels, and early signs of kidney failure, requiring two blood transfusions. At one point, the situation became critical when he suffered a severe coughing fit and accidentally inhaled vomit, leading to respiratory distress.
As a result, he was placed on non-invasive mechanical ventilation and required manual interventions to clear fluid buildup in his lungs.
Despite these setbacks, the Pope remained conscious, alert, and cooperative throughout his treatment. His medical team noted that his sense of humour remained intact, recalling a moment when he was asked about his condition and responded with a smile, saying, “I’m still alive.”
Whilst he continues to experience some difficulty speaking due to the effects of prolonged oxygen therapy, doctors anticipate his voice will gradually return to normal.
Back at the Vatican, Francis will have access to supplemental oxygen and round-the-clock medical supervision. However, Dr Carbone expressed optimism that the Pope would progressively require less assistance.
