Vatican City: The Vatican has released the first image of Pope Francis since he was hospitalized for double pneumonia, showing the 88-year-old pontiff breathing unaided. The photo, taken on Sunday, depicts Francis sitting in a chapel at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, facing the altar with his right hand resting on his lap. His side profile is partially visible, and there is no sign of supplementary oxygen, which he has been receiving during his stay.
Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital on February 14 with a severe respiratory infection that required continuous medical attention. He has not appeared in public since his hospitalization.
According to the Vatican, the pope celebrated Mass in the hospital chapel with other priests on Sunday. In its latest medical update on Saturday, the Vatican stated that Francis’ condition was gradually improving, with reduced dependence on mechanical ventilation at night to assist his breathing.
Despite being described as stable or improving over the past two weeks, no official timeline has been provided for his discharge. The Vatican acknowledged that his recovery remains slow.
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Francis has a history of lung-related health concerns, having undergone surgery in his youth to remove part of one lung due to pleurisy. His current treatment includes respiratory physiotherapy to aid breathing and physical therapy for mobility issues, as he has relied on a wheelchair in recent years due to knee and back pain.
On Thursday, Francis marked the 12th anniversary of his papal election from his hospital bed.
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Medical experts not directly involved in the pope’s care suggest that his advanced age and preexisting conditions could make his recovery prolonged and challenging.
Despite ongoing health concerns, the Vatican announced on Saturday that Francis had approved a new three-year process to discuss reforms within the global Catholic Church, signaling his intent to continue leading despite his medical challenges.
