The Vatican says Pope Francis is awake and responsive after two serious breathing issues on Monday afternoon. REUTERS
Pope Francis experienced two episodes of severe breathing trouble on Monday, according to the Vatican. Doctors had to step in to remove mucus from his lungs, but officials confirmed that he remained alert and aware throughout.
The 88-year-old Pope is now using both an oxygen mask and a ventilator to support his breathing. His condition remains serious, but he is responsive and cooperating with medical staff.
This is the third major health issue he has faced since being hospitalized 18 days ago for pneumonia. Last Friday, he had another breathing crisis, which included vomiting. At that time, doctors treated him with oxygen therapy, and by Sunday, he no longer needed a ventilator. However, after Monday’s incident, he had to resume mechanical ventilation.
Due to his illness, Pope Francis has been unable to deliver his weekly Angelus prayer in person for the past three weeks. Instead, the Vatican has been releasing his prepared messages. On Sunday, the Pope thanked his medical team and all those who have been praying for him.
His condition has also forced him to miss important religious events. He will not be able to attend the Ash Wednesday procession and mass, which marks the beginning of Lent.
Catholics Gather to Pray for Pope’s Recovery
Hundreds of Catholics have been gathering in St. Peter’s Square every evening to pray for the Pope’s health. Many bring rosary beads and stand outside the Basilica, hoping for good news.
Among those in the crowd on Monday was Javier, a priest from Romania. He has been coming to pray every night and expressed concern. “We still have hope, but it doesn’t look good,” he said.
Patricia, a Catholic from Spain, also shared her thoughts. “We really like Francis because he has opened the Church to more people, including the LGBT community. But I fear they will choose a more conservative Pope next to slow down these changes.”
Some believers have also gone to the Gemelli hospital in Rome, hoping the Pope might appear at the window, as he has in the past. However, he remains too weak to do so.
Pope’s Ongoing Health Struggles
Pope Francis was admitted to the hospital on February 14 after experiencing breathing difficulties for several days. At first, doctors treated him for bronchitis, but later tests confirmed he had pneumonia in both lungs.
His health history makes him more vulnerable to lung infections. As a young man, he suffered from pleurisy, an inflammation of the lungs, and had part of his lung removed.
Vatican officials continue to monitor his condition closely. Though they say he is stable, they also warn that he is not yet out of danger.
