Pope Francis spent a “restful night” in the hospital, the Vatican announced Sunday morning, following a severe respiratory crisis that left the 88-year-old pontiff in critical condition. The Pope had been receiving high-flow oxygen therapy and blood transfusions to manage complications stemming from pneumonia and a complex lung infection.
A Critical Health Battle
The Vatican’s statement provided limited details about the Pope’s condition beyond his restful night, leaving concerns about his recovery. On Saturday, medical teams at Rome’s Gemelli hospital confirmed that Francis was in critical but stable condition after a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis. Doctors had prescribed a combination of antibiotics, cortisone treatments, and supplemental oxygen to support his recovery.
Medical experts warned that the Pope’s primary risk was the onset of sepsis—a life-threatening condition that can occur when infections spread into the bloodstream. However, as of Friday, there were no signs of sepsis, and doctors reported that Francis was responding to treatment.
Low Platelet Count Raises Concerns
In addition to his lung infection, blood tests on Saturday revealed that Francis had developed thrombocytopenia, a condition characterized by low platelet levels. Platelets play a crucial role in blood clotting, and a deficiency can increase the risk of internal bleeding and slow wound healing.
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Doctors remain cautious about his prognosis, indicating that the Pope will likely remain hospitalized for at least another week as they monitor his condition.
Pope’s Awareness and Vatican’s Response
Despite his illness, Pope Francis has remained alert and conscious, even spending parts of his day sitting in an armchair. However, doctors noted an increase in his discomfort compared to the previous day. According to Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the head of medicine and surgery at Gemelli hospital, Francis is fully aware of the severity of his condition. “He knows he’s in danger,” Alfieri said, emphasizing the Pope’s resilience and determination to recover.
The Vatican hierarchy has sought to dismiss speculation about a possible resignation. While Pope Francis previously stated that he had written a resignation letter to be used if he became medically incapacitated, Vatican officials insist that he remains in control and capable of performing his duties.
Resignation Speculation Dismissed
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, responded to growing rumors about a potential papal resignation. In an interview with Corriere della Sera, Parolin downplayed speculation, saying, “What matters most right now is the Pope’s health, his recovery, and his return to the Vatican.” The Vatican also formally denied an Italian media report claiming that high-ranking officials had visited the Pope in secret to discuss his possible resignation.
“There is no special movement towards resignation, nor have I heard anything of the sort,” Parolin stated. He acknowledged that rumors tend to spread in moments of uncertainty but emphasized that Francis remains focused on his recovery.
Future Outlook
Pope Francis, who has struggled with chronic lung issues since his youth, was admitted to the hospital on February 14 after a worsening bout of bronchitis. His diagnosis of a complex viral, bacterial, and fungal respiratory tract infection quickly escalated into pneumonia, requiring aggressive treatment.
As the Pope continues his hospitalization, prayers and messages of support have poured in from around the world. Vatican officials remain hopeful about his recovery but acknowledge the challenges posed by his age and pre-existing health conditions.
Francis, known for his strong-willed nature and dedication to his mission, is expected to stay under close medical supervision until his condition stabilizes. While his future remains uncertain, one thing is clear—the world is watching and waiting for his return to the Vatican.
