Pope Francis’ condition is steadily improving, though he still requires ongoing in-hospital therapies, the Vatican confirmed on Saturday.
The 88-year-old pontiff marked one month at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Friday. Doctors have reported that his condition remains stable and is gradually improving following a critical period marked by breathing crises that posed significant health risks.
However, the Vatican sought to temper speculation about his imminent release, emphasizing that despite progress, Pope Francis still requires continued medical care within the hospital environment.
“The clinical condition of the Holy Father has remained stable, confirming the progress observed in the past week,” the Vatican said in a statement. “The Holy Father still requires hospital medical therapy, as well as motor and respiratory physiotherapy, which are showing gradual improvement.”
Pope Francis continues to receive “high-flow oxygen therapy,” which has been reducing the need for non-invasive mechanical ventilation during the day.
In a heartwarming show of support, the pope is receiving thousands of letters daily from well-wishers around the world, Italy’s postal service reported. The surge in correspondence has been felt at the Fiumicino postal sorting center, which is handling an additional 150 kilograms of mail per day.
“These letters and messages, filled with affection and prayers, reflect the international community’s closeness to Pope Francis,” the postal service stated. It also highlighted the important role it plays in ensuring that each message reaches its destination.
While the Vatican has not yet provided a timeline for his release, Pope Francis remains in a special papal suite on the 10th floor of the hospital.
On Friday, marking the 12th anniversary of his papacy, messages of support flooded in from around the world. His favorite football team, San Lorenzo from Buenos Aires, posted a video message, while Brazilian footballer Neymar and former Italian footballer and manager Ciro Ferrara also expressed their well wishes.
Pope Francis has previously expressed gratitude for the support, particularly the “letters and drawings from children” that have deeply touched him. In February, just days after being hospitalized, he thanked well-wishers for their “affection and closeness” in a message published by the Vatican.
AFP
