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Pope Francis has left the hospital after an arduous five-week battle against pneumonia, a health crisis that posed significant risks to his well-being. The 88-year-old pontiff greeted an enthusiastic crowd with a thumbs-up as he made his way home to the Vatican, stopping briefly to pray at a nearby church.
On Sunday morning, a motorcade transported the Pope through Rome, culminating in a warm welcome from throngs of supporters who had gathered to celebrate his return. Following his departure from Gemelli Hospital, Francis made a customary visit to St. Mary Major Basilica, a site he frequently visits for prayer. Looking visibly fatigued but relieved, he acknowledged the well-wishers from a hospital balcony, expressing gratitude to one fan holding yellow flowers.
The atmosphere was jubilant as chants of “Viva il papa!” filled the air, with many in the crowd being patients wheeled outside for a glimpse of the Pope’s brief appearance. Simultaneously, others congregated in St. Peter’s Square, eager to watch his discharge on large screens set up for the occasion.
His return marks the conclusion of a hospitalization that was not only the longest of his papacy but also one of the most prolonged in modern papal history. The Vatican and the global Catholic community have experienced significant anxiety over his health during the previous 38 days, filled with medical challenges and fluctuations.
“Today I feel a great joy,” remarked Dr. Rossella Russomando, who was present at Gemelli but did not treat the Pope. “It is the demonstration that all our prayers, all the rosary prayers from all over the world, brought this grace.”
Home Care and Recovery Plan
Upon returning to the Vatican, no special provisions have been established at the Domus Santa Marta, where the Pope resides in a modest two-room suite. Pope Francis will have access to supplemental oxygen and round-the-clock medical assistance as necessary. His personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, expressed optimism that the Pope would gradually reduce his reliance on breathing assistance as he recuperates.
While the pneumonia has been treated effectively, the Pope will continue on a regimen of oral medications for an ongoing fungal infection in his lungs and will participate in respiratory and physical therapy sessions. “For the past few days, he’s been eager to return home, so he is very happy,” Carbone stated.
Francis’s health struggles commenced with an episode of bronchitis that prompted his admission to Gemelli on February 14. His condition soon evolved into a complex infection involving bacterial and viral elements alongside pneumonia.
Medical Challenges During Hospitalization
In the course of his treatment, initial tests revealed complications including anemia and low blood platelet counts, accompanied by early signs of kidney failure, all of which were resolved following two blood transfusions. The most critical moments arose on February 28, when the Pope experienced a severe coughing episode that necessitated non-invasive ventilation support.
Subsequent respiratory crises complicated his condition, requiring medical professionals to clear significant mucus accumulation from his lungs. Thankfully, he was never intubated and maintained consciousness throughout his hospital stay.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who led the medical team at Gemelli, noted that the Pope was at risk to his life on two distinct occasions due to acute respiratory issues. While Francis is still experiencing some vocal difficulties as a result of lung and respiratory muscle damage, Alfieri reassured that these symptoms are common among older patients and that the Pope’s voice is expected to improve over time.
Future Engagements Uncertain
As of now, the Vatican has not confirmed any upcoming engagements for Pope Francis, including a potential meeting with King Charles III on April 8 or his participation in Easter celebrations later this month. However, Dr. Carbone expressed hope that the Pope might be able to travel to Turkey for a significant event in late May.
The Pope’s return coincides with a Holy Year, celebrating a quarter-century of religious observance expected to attract over 30 million pilgrims to Rome. Despite missing several audience events, Vatican officials indicate that his absence has not deterred the anticipated influx of visitors.
Pope Francis’s recent hospitalization surpasses all but the 1981 stay of St. John Paul II, who remained at Gemelli for 55 days amid health issues. As the Pope continues his recovery, the global Catholic community remains hopeful for his swift return to full duties.
Source
www.cbc.ca