Doctors hospitalized Pope Francis with a severe infection following a bout of bronchitis, amid worsening health concerns.
In a recent turn of events, Pope Francis' health issues have escalated, causing alarm within the Vatican and beyond, the Mirror reported.
The Pope, leader of the Roman Catholic Church, initially suffered from bronchitis, which has now developed into a polymicrobial infection causing significant pain and complications. This development led to his admission to Rome's Gemelli Hospital on a Friday, specifically to the respiratory ward.
Following his hospitalization, the severity of his condition prompted changes in his medical treatment. On top of his physical suffering, the Pope expressed concern over his survival prospects.
Due to his health, Pope Francis had to forgo his customary Sunday sermon and other duties, respecting his doctor's stringent medical advice.
This is not the first health setback for the Pontiff; he has been hospitalized four times since his election in 2013. His medical history is fraught with challenges, including the removal of part of his lung in his youth, an operation on his large intestine in 2021, and ongoing mobility issues because of knee ligament problems.
As his health falters, Pope Francis has taken measures to ensure the continuity of his vision for the Church. He has been instrumental in appointing key figures within the Vatican, aiming to influence the future direction of the Church and the selection of its next leader.
In a historic move, he appointed Sister Raffaella Petrini as the first female Governor of Vatican City and extended the term of Italian Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re.
Observers see these strategic placements as attempts to secure his progressive legacy, reflecting the reforms that have marked his papacy.
Even from the hospital, Pope Francis remained engaged with the community and the Church. On a Monday, he connected virtually with artists and pilgrims, expressing his heartfelt gratitude to the hospital staff for their diligent care.
The Pope addressed attendees of a virtual event, explaining his absence and ongoing treatment for bronchitis, which underscored the seriousness of his health situation.
In a poignant note, the Holy See released a statement conveying the Pope's acknowledgment of the support received, "Pope Francis is touched by the numerous messages of affection and closeness that he has been receiving...he prays for them and asks that they pray for him."
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni has indicated that the length of Pope Francis's stay in the hospital remains uncertain. The evolving situation has the Church and its followers on edge, pondering the implications of his potential incapacity or worse.
The Pope's engagement from his hospital bed highlights his resolve to maintain a semblance of normalcy and leadership despite the challenges posed by his health.
As the world watches, the future of Pope Francis's papacy hangs in the balance, with prayers and messages of support flooding in from across the globe, reflecting the widespread concern for his well-being.
