Pope Francis Set to Be Discharged from Hospital After Health Scare

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Pope Francis is expected to leave Rome’s Gemelli Hospital today, 23 March 2025, after a five-week stay prompted by a severe respiratory infection that developed into double pneumonia. Doctors have advised the 88-year-old Pontiff to rest for at least two months upon his return to the Vatican to aid his recovery.

The Pope’s physician, Dr Sergio Alfieri, revealed that His Holiness faced “two very critical episodes” during his hospitalisation when his life was at significant risk. “Despite this, the Pope was never intubated and remained alert and oriented throughout,” Dr Alfieri shared.

Pope Francis’s condition has since stabilised, though he has not fully recovered. According to Dr Alfieri, “He no longer has pneumonia, but it will take time, especially for his voice, to return to normal.” This is a common consequence of double pneumonia, particularly in elderly patients.

The Vatican confirmed that the Pope, who has battled several health challenges throughout his life, including the removal of part of one of his lungs at age 21, will offer a blessing from his hospital window today. This will mark his first public appearance since being hospitalised.

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On Friday, Cardinal Victor Fernandez noted that the use of high-flow oxygen during treatment had “dried everything out,” and as a result, the Pope “needs to relearn how to speak.” However, medical experts are optimistic about his continued improvement, with doctors suggesting he could resume some duties soon if his recovery trend persists.

The Pope’s breathing and mobility have shown gradual progress, and he has shifted from mechanical ventilation at night to a small oxygen tube. Vatican spokespersons confirmed that during the day, he now requires less oxygen support.

Earlier this month, a heartfelt audio recording of Pope Francis speaking in his native Spanish was played in St Peter’s Square, in which he expressed gratitude to the Catholic faithful for their prayers. A photo released last week also showed him praying in a hospital chapel, his only public engagement since his admission.

Having served as the leader of the Roman Catholic Church for nearly 12 years, Pope Francis remains a symbol of resilience and humility despite his ongoing health struggles.

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