Pope Francis was discharged from a hospital in Rome after recovering from a severe case of pneumonia in both lungs that twice put his life in danger. His doctors said that while his condition had stabilized, he still needed at least two months of rest and therapy before resuming his regular schedule. The pope will be sent to recover in the Vatican and will require oxygen and avoidance of large groups to prevent further infection.
His medical team led by Dr. Sergio Alfieri stated that Pope Francis had been eager to go home and was in good spirits. Catholics around the world had been praying for his recovery since he was admitted to the hospital on Feb. 14 with bronchitis that progressed to pneumonia. Despite the severity of his condition and the complications from a microbial infection, the pope showed signs of improvement after weeks of critical care.
Since his hospitalization, Francis experienced respiratory crises, mild kidney failure, and bronchial spasms that required oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation. In early March, the Vatican announced that the pope was no longer in immediate danger but would require additional in-patient treatment before being discharged. He slowly reduced his use of oxygen therapy and was able to make brief public appearances.
Pope Francis has a history of respiratory issues, having had part of a lung removed in his youth, and has faced various health challenges in recent years. Despite his frailty, he has maintained a busy schedule, including leading the 2025 Jubilee celebrations, a year of faith and penance. This dedication to his duties may have contributed to his health struggles, culminating in the hospitalization for pneumonia.
The pontiff’s recovery has been a source of hope and prayer for Catholics worldwide, with nightly rosary prayers led by cardinals in St. Peter’s Square. His perseverance and resilience in the face of illness have inspired many, and his eventual return to the Vatican is seen as a triumph over adversity. As Pope Francis embarks on a period of rest and recuperation, his followers continue to offer their support and prayers for his continued health and well-being.
While the pope’s health challenges have been significant, his ability to overcome them has been a testament to his strength and resilience. As he prepares to return to the Vatican after his hospital discharge, there is a sense of gratitude and relief among his supporters. The pope’s recovery serves as a reminder of the power of faith and prayer, and the importance of taking care of one’s health in order to continue serving others.
