Pope Francis’s condition remains critical but stable, the Vatican announced on Saturday, after the 88-year-old pontiff suffered a respiratory attack that required high-flow oxygen and blood transfusions.
The Vatican’s latest update confirmed that Francis is alert and spent the day sitting in an armchair, despite being in greater discomfort than the previous day. However, his condition is still considered critical, and the prognosis is reserved.
Francis experienced a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis on Saturday, which required the administration of high-flow oxygen. Daily blood tests also revealed thrombocytopenia, associated with anaemia, necessitating blood transfusions.
The Pope has been hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital since last week, where he was diagnosed with double pneumonia. This is his ninth night at the hospital, and his condition has raised concerns about his ability to continue leading the Catholic Church’s 1.4 billion followers.
Francis’s health challenges have fueled speculation about a possible resignation and his potential successor. Vatican Secretary of State Pietro Parolin declined to engage in “useless speculation,” emphasizing that the focus is on the Pope’s health and recovery.
Italian Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi suggested that Francis might consider stepping down, while Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernández downplayed speculation, stating that he perceives “a great deal of respect” for the Pope’s office.
Despite his health struggles, Francis maintains an intense work schedule. He completed a 12-day tour of the Asia-Pacific region in September and has undergone major surgeries in 2021 and 2023. The Pope also suffers from chronic hip and knee pain, requiring him to use a wheelchair most of the time.
The Vatican’s updates on the Pope’s health have been closely followed by Catholics worldwide, with many praying for his recovery. Outside the Gemelli Hospital, a group of nuns and priests gathered to pray for the Pope’s health, expressing hope for his swift recovery.