Pope Francis made his first public appearance in five weeks on Sunday, stepping onto the balcony of Rome’s Gemelli Hospital to bless a gathered crowd. The 88-year-old pontiff, visibly weakened by his recent health struggles, offered a thumbs-up to supporters before being wheeled back inside, marking the end of his 38-day hospitalisation, APNews reported.
The pope was discharged shortly after, returning to the Vatican for a two-month period of rest and recuperation following a life-threatening bout of pneumonia that many feared he would not survive.
Pope Francis was admitted to hospital on 14 February after suffering complications from bronchitis, which soon escalated into a complex bacterial, viral, and fungal infection, culminating in double pneumonia. His condition became critical on 28 February when an acute coughing fit caused him to aspirate vomit, leading to respiratory crises that required non-invasive ventilation and other intensive medical interventions.
Dr Sergio Alfieri, the medical chief at Gemelli Hospital, revealed that the pope’s life was at risk twice during his hospitalisation. “Not all patients with such severe pneumonia survive,” Alfieri said, adding that the recovery of the pontiff, who also has chronic lung disease, was a testament to his strength.
Despite the severity of his illness, the pope reportedly maintained his composure and humour. “When asked how he was feeling, he replied, ‘I’m still alive,’” Alfieri recalled, signalling the turning point in his recovery.
Upon his return to the Vatican, Pope Francis will continue oral medication to treat a lingering fungal infection and undergo respiratory and physical therapy. Medical equipment, including supplemental oxygen, has been set up at the Domus Santa Marta, where the pope resides, to support his recovery.
While his health remains fragile, the Vatican is optimistic about his progress. However, his ability to preside over major events, including Easter services and a scheduled audience with King Charles III in April, remains uncertain.
The pope’s health scare coincides with the 2025 Holy Year, an event expected to draw over 30 million pilgrims to Rome. Despite his absence from key Jubilee audiences, Vatican officials report that the turnout of pilgrims remains strong.
Francis’ hospitalisation, the longest of his 12-year papacy, is second only to St John Paul II’s 55-day stay at Gemelli Hospital in 1981. For many faithful, the pope’s survival and resilience serve as a source of hope and inspiration.
Outside the hospital, crowds erupted into chants of “Viva il papa!” and “Papa Francesco!” as the pope appeared for his brief blessing. One supporter, Dr Rossella Russomando, commented, “It is a testament to the power of prayer that he has come through this crisis. We are overjoyed.”
The pope’s recovery comes as a relief to the Catholic Church, which has been closely monitoring his health. As he returns to the Vatican, there is a shared hope among the faithful that Francis’ unwavering spirit will see him resume his duties and continue to lead the Church with his characteristic compassion and humour.
For now, the Vatican spokesman, Matteo Bruni, urges patience as the pope focuses on regaining his strength.
