Pope Francis is currently undergoing physiotherapy at Rome’s Gemelli hospital after a quiet night, according to the Vatican. The 88-year-old leader of the Catholic Church is battling pneumonia and has been receiving treatment since February 14. Despite several respiratory crises, including one on Monday, his condition has been described as ‘stable’ for the past few days.
The pontiff, who had part of a lung removed in his youth, continues to alternate between an oxygen mask at night and a cannula during the day. He remains in a complex clinical condition, with the prognosis still guarded. On Thursday, Pope Francis released an audio message thanking well-wishers for their prayers, though his voice was weak and breathless.
Friday saw the pope resting and praying, including a 20-minute session in the hospital’s chapel. His daily routine includes moments of work when possible. Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin recently read a message from Pope Francis during a mass at St Peter’s Basilica, which the pope had prepared just days earlier.
In an effort to provide greater transparency, the Vatican has been issuing updates on the pope’s sleep and health status daily. Thursday’s update indicated that due to his stable condition, no further updates would be provided unless significant changes occur. However, the pope’s health remains a focus of global attention as he continues his recovery.