Pope Francis’s Health Shows Slight Improvement as He Resumes Work and Reaches Out to Gaza
On Monday, the Vatican announced a slight improvement in Pope Francis’s health as he resumed work at the hospital where he is being treated for a complex lung infection.
Clinical Status Update
According to a Vatican statement, Pope Francis’s clinical condition remains critical but has shown a slight improvement. He has not experienced any episodes of asthmatic respiratory crises since Saturday evening. Laboratory tests have also shown improvement, and monitoring of his mild renal insufficiency is not raising concerns. Oxygen therapy continues, albeit with reduced flows and a lower percentage of oxygen.
Daily Prayers and Papal Visits
In a gesture of solidarity and concern, daily evening prayers for the Pope’s health will be held in St. Peter’s Square. The first prayer will be led by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State.
Pope’s Activities
Despite his ongoing health challenges, Pope Francis received the Eucharist in the morning and resumed work in the afternoon. In the evening, he expressed his paternal closeness to the people of Gaza by calling the Parish Priest of the Parish of Gaza.
Gratitude and Prayers
Pope Francis expressed his gratitude to all the people of God who have been praying for his health. The Vatican statement said, "The Holy Father thanks all the people of God who have gathered in these days to pray for his health."
Background and Treatment
Pope Francis, 88, has been hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since February 14th for a complex lung infection. The infection led to the early stages of kidney insufficiency, but it is currently under control.
Medical Staff’s Cautious Approach
Given the complexity of Pope Francis’s clinical picture, the medical staff remains cautious in their prognosis. They are closely monitoring his condition and adjusting his treatment as necessary.
Bishop’s Emotional Mass
At the Gemelli Hospital, Bishop Claudio Giulio Dori presided over an emotional Mass in the St. John Paul II Chapel. Over 200 people attended, including medical staff in their white doctor coats and green surgical scrubs.
Public Concerns and Prayers
The Pope’s health has generated widespread concern and sympathy. Filomena Ferraro, a visitor to the hospital, expressed her feelings of sadness and hope. "We are very sorry. Pope Francis is a good pope, let’s hope that he makes it. Let us hope."
Additional Reporting
This report was compiled with information from Vatican sources and contributions from Thomas Ferraro and Landon Mion of Fox News, as well as the Associated Press.
