Vatican Reports Pope Francis in Critical Condition After Respiratory Attack
POPE FRANCIS – According to the Vatican, Pope Francis is in critical condition after suffering a severe respiratory attack.
The Vatican has confirmed that Pope Francis’s condition remains critical following a severe respiratory attack that required high-flow oxygen and blood transfusions. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been battling double pneumonia, is currently under intensive medical supervision at Rome’s Gemelli hospital.
“The Holy Father’s condition continues to be critical,” the Vatican stated on Saturday, adding that despite his alertness, he suffered a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis earlier in the day. This episode necessitated oxygen therapy and further medical interventions, including blood transfusions due to thrombocytopenia and anemia.
Doctors remain cautious, emphasizing that while the pope is not in immediate danger of death, his situation is far from stable. Professor Sergio Alfieri, the lead physician overseeing Pope Francis’s care, noted that his condition has shown slight improvement, allowing for a gradual reduction in medication. However, he reiterated that the pontiff remains vulnerable given his age and overall health status.
Vatican Cancels Sunday Angelus Prayer
Due to his deteriorating health, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis would not deliver his customary Sunday Angelus prayer. Instead, the text will be published, as was done the previous week. This decision underscores the severity of his condition and the need for rest and medical supervision.
Speculation Over Papal Resignation
The pope’s hospitalization has fueled speculation about his ability to continue leading the Catholic Church. Discussions on a potential resignation have resurfaced, reminiscent of Pope Benedict XVI’s historic decision to step down in 2013. However, Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin dismissed such discussions as premature, urging focus on Francis’s recovery.
Pope Francis himself has previously addressed the possibility of resignation but maintains that the papacy is a lifelong commitment. Despite this, he has also acknowledged the reality of his declining health, joking about the inevitable speculation that follows each health scare.
Prayers and Support from the Faithful
As the pope remains hospitalized, nuns, priests, and faithful from around the world have gathered outside the Gemelli hospital, offering prayers for his recovery. Brazilian priest Don Wellison expressed his hope for the pope’s swift return, saying, “We are praying for the Holy Father, and our hope is that he will recover well in the grace of God.”
Pope Francis, known for his relentless work schedule and dedication to reforming the Church, has faced multiple health challenges in recent years, including colon surgery and a hernia operation. His ongoing struggle with mobility issues, including hip and knee pain, has further complicated his condition.
As the Catholic Church and its 1.4 billion followers await further updates, the world continues to watch and pray for the recovery of Pope Francis.
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