Vatican City: Pope Francis experienced a minor mishap on Saturday when the handle of his walking stick snapped as he entered the Vatican auditorium for a scheduled audience. Despite the stumble, the 88-year-old pontiff managed to avoid falling, thanks to the quick assistance of two aides who helped him to his seat on stage.
The incident occurred amid ongoing concerns about the Pope’s health, as he has been using a wheelchair or cane due to severe knee issues and has fallen twice in recent months. Despite the stumble, the audience proceeded smoothly, with an attendee shouting “Viva il Papa” (Long live the Pope), prompting applause from the crowd.
Pope Francis has faced several health challenges recently. Earlier in January, he injured his right arm in a fall, though it was not broken, and he wore a sling as a precaution. On December 7, he sustained a significant bruise after hitting his chin on a nightstand. The Pope has also battled chronic health issues, including frequent bronchitis, and relies on a walker or cane within his residence at the Vatican’s Santa Marta hotel.
Health speculation has been a recurring topic in Vatican circles, particularly since Pope Benedict XVI’s historic resignation in 2013, attributed partly to a fall during a trip to Mexico in 2012. However, Pope Francis has firmly stated his intention to remain in office. In his recently released autobiography, “Hope,” he dismissed any thoughts of resignation, even after undergoing major intestinal surgery.
The Vatican continues to monitor the Pope’s health closely, but his resilience and commitment to his papal duties remain evident as he navigates these physical challenges.
