Pope Francis Discharged After 38 Days in Hospital
ROME (AP) — Pope Francis will be released from the hospital on Sunday after spending 38 days battling a severe pneumonia that affected both of his lungs and endangered his life on two occasions. This situation had briefly raised concerns about a potential resignation or funeral for the 88-year-old pontiff.
Recovery Plan and Future Activities
Following his discharge, the pope is expected to rest, rehabilitate, and convalesce at the Vatican for at least two months. During this period, Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who led Francis’ medical team at Gemelli Hospital, advised against large gatherings and any strenuous activity. However, Dr. Luigi Carbone, Francis’ personal physician, indicated that if the pope continues to recover steadily, he should eventually return to his usual activities.
Medical Updates and Improvements
The medical team held an urgent press conference on Saturday—marking the first in-person update on the pope’s condition in a month—where they confirmed his release for Sunday. The doctors indicated that Francis had spent the past two weeks showing stable improvements and expressed their relief at his recovery.
Spirits Remain High Despite Challenges
Dr. Alfieri noted that Francis showed remarkable resilience, even during challenging days. “He had an acute moment of health decline, but he maintained good spirits,” Alfieri recounted. The pope’s humor returned when he responded positively during medical checks.
Successfully Overcoming Serious Health Issues
Francis’s health issue began after a bronchitis incident escalated, leading to a series of complications, including a respiratory infection and double pneumonia. Despite facing critical setbacks, involving noninvasive ventilation and other interventions, he remained conscious and engaged with his medical team.
Plans After Hospitalization
Post-discharge, the pope will continue taking oral medication to treat residual fungal infections in his lungs. Dr. Alfieri expressed that rehabilitating at the Vatican is advisable, as hospitals pose a risk for additional infections. While future public appearances remain uncertain, Carbone expressed hopes for Francis’s participation in upcoming events, including a planned trip to Turkey in late May.
First Public Appearance Scheduled
Before returning to the Vatican, Francis is scheduled to bless the faithful from his hospital suite on Sunday morning, marking his first public appearance since being admitted on February 14. This will be a significant moment as it comes during the longest hospitalization of his papacy.
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Colleen Barry contributed from Venice.
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