Pope Francis, 88, suffered two separate episodes of acute respiratory failure on Monday, requiring two bronchoscopies, the Vatican reported.
These incidents are part of the pontiff’s ongoing battle with pneumonia, which has kept him in Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14.
According to a statement from the Vatican, the pope’s respiratory distress was caused by the significant accumulation of mucus in the airways and subsequent bronchospasm. The episodes occurred on the 18th day of his hospitalization, marking the longest stay of his papacy.
The Argentine pope was initially admitted with bronchitis, which soon developed into pneumonia affecting both of his lungs, prompting widespread concern. The Vatican’s medical bulletin revealed that the bronchoscopies were performed to “aspirate abundant secretions,” and the pope resumed non-invasive mechanical ventilation (using an oxygen mask) in the afternoon.
Despite his health challenges, the pope remains alert, focused, and cooperative, the Vatican noted. His prognosis, however, remains “reserved,” indicating uncertainty about the future course of his condition.
On Sunday evening, the Vatican reported that the pope’s condition had stabilized after he experienced a breathing crisis on Friday. Although he required oxygen on Friday and Saturday, he was able to forgo it on Sunday, participating in Mass and alternating rest with prayer.
During his recovery, Pope Francis met with Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s secretary of state, and Archbishop Edgar Pena Parra, a senior Vatican official. Despite his illness, he continues to maintain a connection with key figures within the Church.
Francis, who has served as pope since March 2013, is being treated in a special suite reserved for pontiffs on the 10th floor of the Gemelli Hospital. He missed his traditional Angelus prayer for the third consecutive Sunday, with the Vatican instead issuing a written message from the pope.
In his message, Francis thanked his supporters for their prayers, saying: “I feel all your affection and closeness, and at this particular time, I feel as if I am ‘carried’ and supported by all God’s people. Thank you all.”
AFP
