Pope Francis is set to be discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital today, March 23, following a five-week battle with double pneumonia. The 88-year-old Pontiff was admitted on February 14 with a severe respiratory infection that escalated into a life-threatening condition, according to doctors treating him.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, one of the medical professionals overseeing the Pope’s recovery, revealed that the Holy Father experienced “two very critical episodes” during his hospital stay, where his life was in serious danger. However, he remained alert and was never intubated. Though not fully recovered, he is now stable and no longer suffering from pneumonia, prompting doctors to approve his return to the Vatican.
Before his departure from the hospital, Pope Francis is expected to offer a blessing from his window at Gemelli Hospital on Sunday. This will mark his first public appearance since being admitted last month.
Despite his discharge, doctors have recommended at least two months of rest at the Vatican before he can fully resume his duties. Dr. Alfieri explained that double pneumonia often affects a patient’s voice, and elderly individuals take longer to regain their full vocal strength. Cardinal Victor Fernandez had previously noted that the high-flow oxygen treatment used during his hospitalization had dried out his throat, requiring him to gradually relearn how to speak properly.
The Vatican had reported improvements in Pope Francis’ breathing and mobility, confirming that he no longer requires mechanical ventilation at night. Instead, he receives oxygen through a small nasal tube, with reduced reliance on high-flow oxygen during the day.
Since his hospitalization, the Pope has made only one public appearance through a photograph released by the Vatican, showing him praying in a hospital chapel. Earlier this month, an audio recording of him speaking in Spanish was played in St. Peter’s Square, where he expressed gratitude for the prayers and support of the faithful, though his voice sounded breathless.
Having led the Catholic Church for nearly 12 years, Pope Francis has faced numerous health challenges, including the removal of part of his lung at the age of 21, which has made him more vulnerable to respiratory infections. With his condition stabilizing, doctors remain optimistic that he will be able to return to work soon if his recovery continues on its current trajectory.
