Pope Francis, 88, has reportedly confided in close aides that he fears “he might not make it this time” as he continues treatment for a severe respiratory infection at Rome’s Gemelli hospital.
According to Politico, the Pontiff was admitted on February 14 and diagnosed with double pneumonia. He remains under intensive medical care.
While the Vatican maintains that his condition is stable, sources indicate that he is in significant discomfort and increasingly dependent on medical intervention.
A Vatican official, speaking anonymously on Wednesday, stated that the Pope is not on a ventilator and is breathing independently.
The official added that Francis has managed to sit up in a chair and resumed limited clerical work.
Health Concerns and Medical History
The Pope has suffered several health issues in recent years, including abdominal hernia surgery in 2023 and chronic sciatica pain.
His respiratory condition has worsened due to a long-standing lung issue dating back to his youth, when he had part of one lung removed due to pleurisy.
Doctors at Gemelli hospital, which has a specialized papal treatment suite, have placed him on “very targeted therapy” after identifying a polymicrobial infection. Experts believe that while the infection is serious, it has not spread extensively.
Despite his frail condition, sources suggest Francis is making critical decisions and shaping the Church’s future.
Notably, before his hospitalization, he extended the tenure of Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re as the Dean of the College of Cardinals, a move that could impact the selection of his successor in a future papal conclave.
Elected in 2013, Pope Francis has been a reformist leader, advocating for a more inclusive Church and taking steps to address clerical abuse scandals. His leadership has been met with both praise and criticism, particularly for his progressive stance on social issues.
Global Support and Vatican Response
The Vatican has confirmed that all public engagements of the Pope have been suspended until at least Sunday, with no further events on the Holy See’s calendar.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State, has returned from a diplomatic visit to Burkina Faso, while other senior officials continue their scheduled assignments.
Pilgrims from around the world have gathered outside St. Peter’s Basilica, offering prayers for the Pope’s recovery.
Outside Gemelli hospital, well-wishers have placed flowers and messages under a statue of Pope John Paul II.
Gianfranco Rizzo, a visitor from Bari, Italy, expressed his support:
“We will pray for him so that he can recover as soon as possible.”
