Pope Francis has been in the spotlight recently due to concerns over his health. At 88 years old, he has faced many different health challenges including respiratory problems and knee pain. These issues have led to fewer and fewer appearances from the Pope, and as Easter approaches, many question his ability to lead Holy Week masses.
On Feb. 14, the Pope was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital for a severe respiratory infection that caused pneumonia in both lungs. In the first three weeks of his hospitalization, the Pope was faced with a respiratory crisis, mild kidney failure, and a severe coughing fit which led doctors to put a respiratory ventilation mask on him. Following these issues, the Pope also faced two life threatening episodes of acute respiratory insufficiency. On March 5, also known as Ash Wednesday, the Pope’s condition improved. He became more stable and alert.
The health of the Pope is a concern with Easter Sunday just weeks away. Historically, the Pope leads Easter mass because he is the leader of the Catholic Church. Millions of Catholics watch the Easter mass in person or online throughout Easter Sunday. Without the presence of the Pope, many feel like the celebration won’t be the same. In the event that the Pope is unable to give mass, the College of Cardinals, specifically the camerlengo, will take over. This position is currently held by Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrell.
As of March 22, Pope Francis has been discharged from the hospital. Even though he was discharged, he has not yet made a full recovery. The Pope’s doctors prescribed a two month period of rest at home, where he would continue to receive additional medical treatment.
The Pope appeared weak but in good spirits as he was wheeled out of the hospital. He briefly greeted hundreds of Catholics from the hospital balcony. This was his first public appearance since being hospitalized in early February. The crowd outside the hospital celebrated Pope Francis’s remarkable recovery after multiple illnesses that left him hospitalized for weeks.
