Pope Francis Vatican Recovery Advances
The pope's recovery is seen as a positive development, and his return to the Vatican will be closely watched by Catholics around the world. With his health improving steadily, Pope Francis is expected to resume his duties, albeit with a period of rest and convalescence.
Pope Francis has been discharged from Rome's Gemelli hospital after being treated for pneumonia, appearing at his hospital window to offer a blessing to cheering crowds before leaving.
The 88-year-old pontiff had been in the hospital since February 14 and experienced two "critical episodes" where his life was in danger. Despite these challenges, doctors say he will need at least two months of rest at the Vatican to fully recover. Throughout his treatment, Pope Francis was never intubated and remained alert and oriented, and he is no longer suffering from pneumonia.
The pope's hospitalisation has been the longest of his 12-year papacy, and it has been reported that he had part of one lung removed due to pleurisy as a young adult. The Vatican's latest bulletins have been cautiously upbeat, with one senior cardinal stating that Francis is doing well, but needs to "relearn to speak" after using oxygen during his hospital stay.
Plans for a meeting with Britain's King Charles on April 8 suggest that he could be back at his Vatican residence by then, and his doctors have prescribed at least two months of rest and medical care. Despite his improving health, the Pope will not immediately resume his pre-hospitalization activities, including meeting with people and groups.
The Vatican has announced that Pope Francis is expected to return to work as soon as possible, and his first public appearance in over five weeks is scheduled for Sunday, where he will offer a blessing from the window of his room at Rome's Gemelli Hospital.