Pope Francis remains in a critical condition following a severe respiratory crisis, the Vatican confirmed on Sunday. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been hospitalized since February 14 at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, experienced a prolonged respiratory attack on Saturday, requiring high-flow oxygen and blood transfusions.
Health Concerns and Medical Challenges
Initially admitted with bronchitis, the pope’s condition worsened into double pneumonia. The Vatican stated that daily blood tests revealed thrombocytopenia, a condition marked by dangerously low platelet levels, which can lead to severe bleeding. As a result, he underwent blood transfusions.
Despite his fragile health, Francis remained conscious and spent the day in an armchair, though he was reportedly in more discomfort than the previous day. His overall prognosis remains uncertain, with medical experts emphasizing that the next few days will be crucial.
Public and Vatican Reactions
Leading Italian newspapers have described the situation as deeply concerning, with Corriere della Sera reporting that “the pope is deteriorating” and La Repubblica calling it “the darkest day” at the Vatican. Virologist Fabrizio Pregliasco told La Stampa that the coming hours will be critical for the pontiff’s recovery.
A group of nuns and priests gathered outside Gemelli Hospital on Saturday to pray for Francis, lighting candles near the statue of former Pope John Paul II. “We are praying today for the Holy Father, Pope Francis, and we hope he recovers well by the grace of God,” said Brazilian priest Don Wellison.
Speculation About Papal Resignation
The pope has maintained that the papacy is a lifelong role but has not ruled out resigning, following the precedent set by his predecessor, Benedict XVI, in 2013. Benedict was the first pope since the Middle Ages to voluntarily step down due to declining health.
Francis, who has faced increasing health struggles in recent years, underwent colon surgery in 2021 and a hernia operation in 2023. He also suffers from chronic hip and knee pain, requiring him to use a wheelchair. Despite these challenges, he has upheld a demanding schedule, including a 12-day Asia-Pacific tour in September 2024.
The Vatican continues to monitor his condition closely, with the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics anxiously awaiting updates on his health.
