Pope Francis emerged from the Gemelli hospital in Rome to greet enthusiastic crowds for the first time since his hospitalization on 14 February. The 88-year-old pontiff, having experienced "two very critical episodes" where his life was reportedly at risk, was discharged just minutes after his hospital appearance, with doctors recommending he take at least two months of rest at the Vatican.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, one of the Pope's treating physicians, confirmed that though Pope Francis is not fully healed, he has recovered from pneumonia and was never intubated during his stay, remaining alert and responsive throughout. “If all continues to go well, he will resume his duties as soon as possible,” Dr. Alfieri stated.
Mayor Roberto Gualtieri expressed profound joy upon witnessing the Pope's discharge, calling it a wonderful gift to both Rome and the world. As crowds gathered outside the hospital, emotions ran high. Bishop Larry Kulick from Pennsylvania voiced his relief at seeing the Pope, stating, “I felt just overjoyed to see him.”
Ilaria Della Bidia, a local singer, described the atmosphere outside the hospital as heavenly, while Ana Matos from Brazil, who had just arrived, shared her excitement about seeing a healthy Pope smiling. Earlier this month, an audio message from the Pope was played in St. Peter's Square, where he expressed gratitude for the prayers of the faithful.
Pope Francis, who has led the Roman Catholic Church for 12 years, has faced various health challenges throughout his life, including a lung surgery at age 21 that leaves him more susceptible to infections.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, one of the Pope's treating physicians, confirmed that though Pope Francis is not fully healed, he has recovered from pneumonia and was never intubated during his stay, remaining alert and responsive throughout. “If all continues to go well, he will resume his duties as soon as possible,” Dr. Alfieri stated.
Mayor Roberto Gualtieri expressed profound joy upon witnessing the Pope's discharge, calling it a wonderful gift to both Rome and the world. As crowds gathered outside the hospital, emotions ran high. Bishop Larry Kulick from Pennsylvania voiced his relief at seeing the Pope, stating, “I felt just overjoyed to see him.”
Ilaria Della Bidia, a local singer, described the atmosphere outside the hospital as heavenly, while Ana Matos from Brazil, who had just arrived, shared her excitement about seeing a healthy Pope smiling. Earlier this month, an audio message from the Pope was played in St. Peter's Square, where he expressed gratitude for the prayers of the faithful.
Pope Francis, who has led the Roman Catholic Church for 12 years, has faced various health challenges throughout his life, including a lung surgery at age 21 that leaves him more susceptible to infections.
