ROME (AP) – Pope Francis is poised to make his first public appearance in five weeks, scheduled for a Sunday blessing from the 10th-floor papal suite at Rome's Gemelli hospital. His upcoming discharge marks a significant milestone, as he has recently battled a severe case of pneumonia that endangered his life multiple times, leading to speculation regarding the possibility of a papal resignation or funeral.
The ailing 88-year-old pontiff will return to the Vatican following a lengthy 38-day hospitalization. Doctors had recommended a period of rest, rehabilitation, and convalescence lasting at least two months. They advised that he should avoid large gatherings and strenuous activities for the time being. Dr. Luigi Carbone, Francis’ personal physician, expressed optimism about the pope's future, stating that he should eventually be able to resume normal activities if he continues to make steady progress.
Both the Vatican and the Catholic faithful expressed profound relief at the pope's return home, as anxiously watching his medical ups and downs raised concerns about his health. Dr. Rossella Russomando, a physician present at Gemelli, remarked on the joy of his recovery, attributing it to the global outpouring of prayers from believers.
The pope will be returning to the Domus Santa Marta, the Vatican hotel adjacent to St. Peter's Basilica, where he resides in a two-room suite. Adequate arrangements for his care have been made, ensuring that he has access to supplemental oxygen and round-the-clock medical assistance. Still, Dr. Carbone expressed hope that Francis would gradually require less support as his lungs continue to heal.
Pope Francis's health had been a concern after his admission to Gemelli on February 14 due to complications stemming from bronchitis, which escalated into a complex combination of bacterial, viral, and fungal respiratory infections, including pneumonia in both of his lungs. He experienced significant medical challenges such as anemia, low blood platelet counts, and early indications of kidney failure, all of which were effectively addressed through medical intervention, including blood transfusions.
The most critical moments of Francis's health crisis occurred on February 28, when he suffered from an acute coughing fit and inhaled vomit, necessitating the use of a noninvasive mechanical ventilation mask to assist with his breathing. He encountered two additional respiratory emergencies shortly thereafter, requiring invasive medical procedures to clear his lungs of mucus. Remarkably, he was never intubated, remained conscious throughout, and was reported to be alert and cooperative, although he may have lost some weight due to a reduced appetite.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the medical and surgical chief responsible for coordinating the pope's treatment, highlighted the severity of Francis's condition, noting that it is not uncommon for patients with such a critical case of double pneumonia to succumb. However, he confirmed that the pope demonstrated resilience in the face of these challenges. A notable moment during this struggle came when he cheerfully responded, "I'm still alive!" when asked about his condition—an indication of his regained spirits.
As Pope Francis transitions back to the Vatican during this Holy Year—a significant event anticipated to attract over 30 million pilgrims—officials remain uncertain about his immediate schedule. Speculation surrounds potential participation in future events, including an audience with King Charles III set for April 8 and Easter services at the end of the month. However, both the Vatican spokesman and Dr. Carbone have suggested there may be limitations depending on the pope's recovery trajectory.
Overall, Pope Francis's hospitalization has highlighted his vulnerability yet also underscored his capacity for resilience. Though he missed several Jubilee audiences, officials indicated that his absence had not measurably affected the influx of expected pilgrims, reflecting the enduring faith and support of the global Catholic community.
