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Pope Francis passed away on Monday at the age of 88, following a series of health complications that had plagued him in recent years.
His death was officially announced by the Vatican at 7:35 a.m., citing causes that included a cerebral stroke, which followed a coma and ultimately led to irreversible heart failure. This marked the conclusion of a prolonged struggle with various health issues.
Dr. Jon LaPook, CBS News’ chief medical correspondent, commented on Francis’ condition, explaining that he had experienced several underlying health problems. A stroke can severely impact blood supply to the brain, potentially leading to life-threatening complications, including the failure of respiratory and cardiac functions.
Having undergone surgery to remove part of one lung in his youth, Pope Francis had long faced health challenges, particularly respiratory ailments. Earlier this year, he was admitted to the hospital for five weeks due to double pneumonia. His health history includes significant surgical interventions, such as intestinal surgery in July 2021 for bowel narrowing, and several other hospitalizations for infections and surgical repairs.
Since 2022, mobility became a significant concern for the pontiff as he frequently relied on a wheelchair, walker, or cane due to knee-related injuries, compounded by a series of falls.
In the first half of 2023, Pope Francis confronted a wave of critical health setbacks:
February 6, 2023: Diagnosed with bronchitis, the pope continued to hold daily audiences but required assistance in delivering his speeches due to breathing difficulties.
February 14, 2023: He was hospitalized for bronchitis treatment and further diagnostic testing with expectations of a brief stay.
February 17, 2023: Health updates indicated a “complex clinical picture,” revealing a polymicrobial respiratory tract infection necessitating adjustments in his medications.
February 18, 2023: A chest CT scan unveiled bilateral pneumonia, affecting both lungs; however, he remained in good spirits, utilizing the time to rest and engage in prayer.
February 23, 2023: As his condition remained critical with signs of early kidney failure, the Vatican confirmed he was alert and responsive, though he required substantial supplemental oxygen.
February 26, 2023: A positive update from the Vatican noted slight improvement in his kidney function. He was undergoing respiratory physiotherapy to alleviate fluid in his lungs.
February 28, 2023: Francis experienced a bronchospasm leading to a critical incident where he inhaled vomit. He was treated successfully with noninvasive mechanical ventilation.
March 1, 2023: Following the bronchial crisis, he had a stable night and was able to enjoy coffee and read newspapers.
March 3, 2023: Two incidents of acute respiratory failure occurred due to significant mucus accumulation and bronchospasm.
March 8, 2023: The Vatican reported that Francis was making gradual progress amid pneumonia treatment.
March 10, 2023: Although no longer in immediate danger from pneumonia, doctors opted to keep him hospitalized for continued care.
March 14, 2023: He observed the twelfth anniversary of his papacy from the hospital, marking a month since the start of his hospitalization.
March 23, 2023: After five weeks, he was discharged from the Gemelli hospital in Rome, having successfully endured a life-threatening bout of pneumonia.
March 26, 2023: In an interview with Dr. Sergio Alfieri, it was revealed that Francis faced life-threatening situations at least twice during his hospitalization. Alfieri detailed a particularly dire moment on February 28, describing it as the most challenging day of the pope’s treatment.
The death of Pope Francis marks a significant moment in the Catholic Church, reflecting a profound legacy shaped by his commitment to service and compassion during his papacy.
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www.cbsnews.com