After a tumultuous Monday, Pope Francis woke up “stable” on Tuesday, marking a significant turn of events in his ongoing health journey. Nineteen days into his hospitalization, the 88-year-old Argentine Jesuit was able to switch from a mask that assists his breathing to a nasal cannula – a decided improvement in his treatment. Following a restful night’s sleep, the Pope reportedly got out of bed and continued his treatment, with initial reports from the Vatican indicating that he had exchanged his oxygen mask for a lighter, high-flow nasal cannula.
The Vatican’s announcement, while cautiously optimistic, underscored the complexity of the Pope’s clinical situation. “The situation this morning can be considered stable, but the overall clinical picture remains complex,” a Vatican source clarified, emphasizing that the Pope’s prognosis is “reserved” and that he’s “not out of danger.” The Pope’s hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome began on February 14, after he was diagnosed with bronchitis that eventually developed into double pneumonia.
However, the Pope’s health has experienced fluctuations, triggering concerns about his well-being. The latest setback occurred on Monday, with the Vatican revealing that he suffered two episodes of acute respiratory failure after two days of relative stability. As the world continues to monitor the Pope’s health, the Vatican’s updates have been met with a mixture of hope and concern for the well-being of the beloved spiritual leader.
The Pope’s journey to recovery is being closely watched by people around the globe, and the Vatican’s careful management of information has ensured that the public remains informed about his condition. With the support of his medical team and the prayers of the faithful, Pope Francis continues to navigate the challenges of his illness, and the world waits with bated breath for news of his progress.
Information for this report was provided by AFP.