Pope Francis is set to return home after a stay in the hospital. Dr. Alfieri announced on Saturday that the Pope will leave the Gemelli hospital and head back to the Vatican. This marks a significant step in his recovery, as he has been receiving treatment for double pneumonia.
On Sunday, the Pope will make a public appearance to offer a blessing from the hospital window. This will be his first time speaking to the public since he was admitted. The Vatican has reported that his breathing and mobility have improved, and he is no longer dependent on mechanical ventilation at night. Instead, he is using a small tube for oxygen during the day.
Cardinal Victor Fernandez mentioned that the high-flow oxygen used during treatment has affected the Pope’s voice. He noted that it may take some time for the Pope to regain his normal speaking ability. Dr. Alfieri echoed this sentiment, explaining that patients with double pneumonia often experience temporary voice loss, especially the elderly.
The Pope has been seen publicly only once since his hospitalization, in a photograph released by the Vatican showing him praying in a chapel. Earlier this month, an audio message in Spanish was played in St. Peter’s Square, where he thanked the faithful for their prayers, though his voice sounded breathless.
Pope Francis, who has led the Roman Catholic Church for nearly 12 years, has faced several health challenges in his life. Notably, he had part of one lung removed when he was 21, which has made him more vulnerable to respiratory infections. As he prepares to return to his duties, doctors are optimistic about his ongoing recovery. If his health continues to improve, he may be able to resume his work soon.