Pope Francis Shows Slight Improvement, Receives Prime Minister Meloni’s Visit
Despite his ongoing battle with pneumonia, Pope Francis displayed a slight improvement on Wednesday, offering glimmers of optimism. The Holy Father received a visit from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who provided a reassuring update on his condition.
Prime Minister Meloni’s Visit
Prime Minister Meloni, representing the Italian government and nation, spent 20 minutes with the pope at Rome’s Gemelli hospital, where popes traditionally receive medical care. Her visit marked the first time an outsider had visited Pope Francis since his hospitalization.
In a statement, Meloni remarked on the pope’s alertness and responsiveness, noting with a touch of humor, "We joked around as always. He has not lost his proverbial sense of humor."
Pope Francis’ Condition
The Vatican’s official statement confirmed Pope Francis’ slight improvement, stating that "the clinical conditions of the Holy Father are stable." Blood tests administered to the pope indicated a positive sign with a "slight improvement," particularly in the inflammatory indices.
The pope began his day by reading newspapers and engaging in regular work activities with his closest collaborators. Before lunch, he received the Eucharist.
Calls for Prayers
Pope Francis’ vicar for Rome, Cardinal Angelo De Donatis, urged the pope’s followers to offer silent prayers for an hour before evening vespers services. Visitors to the hospital expressed their concerns and prayers for the pope’s swift recovery.
"I think many people are disappointed but I think more importantly we really have to pray for his health," stated Sister Charlene, a nun from Singapore who was present at the piazza.
Pope Francis’ Health History
Pope Francis has experienced various health challenges in recent years. At just 21 years old, he underwent surgery to remove part of his lung due to pleurisy, an inflammation of the membranes lining the lungs.
In 2021, the pope underwent successful colon surgery to address a diverticular stenosis. He also underwent knee surgery in 2023, which has since impacted his mobility, necessitating the use of a wheelchair.
Ongoing Battle with Pneumonia
Pope Francis’ current hospitalization stems from a diagnosis of pneumonia, an inflammation of the air sacs in the lungs. While the condition is common, it can be particularly serious in older adults, especially those with other health issues.
The Vatican’s statement emphasizes the pope’s stability and the slight improvement observed in his blood tests. However, the pope’s overall health and recovery timeline remain uncertain.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
