Pope Francis’ health has seen continuous improvement since his release from the hospital, where he spent a month-long stay receiving treatment for pneumonia and other infections. During his time at Policlinico A. Gemelli in Rome, Francis endured two severe episodes – a breathing crisis and a bronchial spasm that caused him to inhale vomit. Doctors had initially doubted his chances of recovery, yet he was eventually discharged on March 23 to recuperate at his Vatican guesthouse.

On Tuesday, the Vatican announced that Francis’ blood tests were returning to normal and a recent X-ray showed slight improvement in his lungs. While he still requires oxygen throughout the day, he can manage without it for brief intervals. The Vatican also reported progress in his motor and respiratory therapy, noting improvements in his voice and mobility.

Since his departure from the hospital, Francis has not appeared in public, only briefly greeting well-wishers from a balcony. During this audience, it was evident that the health crisis had taken a toll on the 88-year-old pope, as his voice was weak, breathing labored, and he struggled to raise his hands for a blessing.

Upon discharge, doctors advised Francis to rest and recover for a minimum of two months, which he has mostly heeded. The Vatican stated that he has not had any visitors, but engages in daily Mass with other priests and spends part of the day working at his desk.

Over the past week, Francis has approved the canonization of Venezuela’s first female saint and the first saint for Papua New Guinea. He has also appointed several bishops and offered prayers for the victims of the recent earthquake in Southeast Asia. In his traditional Angelus prayer and blessing, delivered in writing instead of his usual address from St. Peter’s Square, Francis encouraged the faithful to view the Lenten period leading to Easter as a time of healing. He shared that he, too, is experiencing this period of healing both spiritually and physically.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/04/01/world/europe/pope-francis-health-vatican.html