Pope Francis has been hospitalized for 29 days at Gemelli Hospital in Rome due to respiratory issues. He currently continues to require high flows of oxygen during the day and non-invasive mechanical ventilation at night. Despite the complex nature of his health, it has been reported that he is stable. For this reason, medical updates are issued on alternate days.
A new medical report is expected this Friday, while a mass will be held in the Clementine Chapel of the papal palace officiated by Secretary of State Pietro Parolin to pray for Francis's recovery. Accredited ambassadors to the Vatican will also attend the mass in a show of support.
Recently, the pope commemorated his twelve years of pontificate in the hospital alongside health personnel, who prepared a surprise celebration for him. Despite having suffered some health crises, he is currently experiencing improvement and responding positively to treatment.
At 88 years old, Francis dedicates his days to respiratory and motor physiotherapy while closely following the spiritual exercises carried out by the Roman Curia for Lent. Although it cannot be determined when he will be discharged from the hospital, the need for time for his recovery due to his age is emphasized.
With 29 days hospitalized, this is already Francis's longest stay in the hospital, matching that of John Paul II in 1994 for a hip operation.
