Pope Francis is no longer in immediate danger of death due to pneumonia, according to his doctors. The 88-year-old pontiff has been in the hospital for nearly a month but is showing signs of improvement. Doctors have decided to keep him hospitalized for a few more days to continue his treatment.
The Vatican announced that the pope’s condition has stabilized, and recent blood tests indicate he is responding well to medication. Initially admitted for a severe respiratory infection, his prognosis has improved from “guarded” to more hopeful. However, the medical team remains cautious due to the seriousness of his condition upon arrival.
In a positive development, Pope Francis participated in a spiritual retreat via videoconference from his hospital room. He joined the morning and afternoon sessions, although the priests and cardinals at the Vatican could only see and hear the retreat’s preacher, Rev. Roberto Pasolini.
The retreat, which is an annual event for the Catholic Church, focuses on themes of hope and eternal life. This year, it takes on special significance as the pope continues to recover from his lung infection and double pneumonia. The pope is also undergoing physical and respiratory therapy at the hospital. He uses a nasal tube for oxygen during the day and a noninvasive mask at night to assist his breathing.
Despite his health issues, Pope Francis remains engaged with current events. He has been kept informed about the floods affecting his home country of Argentina and has expressed his concern for those affected. Additionally, a cardinal close to him has addressed some of the negative media reports circulating during his absence.
As he nears the 12th anniversary of his election, this marks the longest period of hospitalization in his papacy. The Vatican has been abuzz with speculation about his health and the future of the papacy, but officials have emphasized that Pope Francis is still very much in charge.