Jakarta, Indonesia Sentinel — Pope Francis was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Sunday (March 23) after spending more than a month receiving treatment for pneumonia.
After being discharged, the 88-year-old pontiff made his first public appearance since February 14, waving to well-wishers from a balcony moments before leaving the hospital.
He had been admitted due to a severe respiratory infection, marking one of the most serious health crises of his 12-year papacy. According to Reuters, doctors stated that while Pope Francis has been cleared to leave the hospital, his aging body will need significant time to recover fully. They have recommended a two-month rest period at the Vatican.
Before he exited the hospital, Pope Francis smiled and acknowledged the crowd gathered outside in a wheelchair from the balcony. He was then escorted back to the Vatican in a car, accompanied by a police motorcade.
During his hospital stay, the pontiff made only one other public appearance, in a Vatican-released photo last week showing him praying inside the hospital chapel. On Sunday, before his discharge, hundreds of supporters gathered outside the hospital, chanting “Francis, Francis, Francis” as they awaited his release.
Observers noted that the Pope appeared with a swollen face and spoke only briefly in a frail voice, thanking a supporter who had brought him yellow flowers.
Pope Francis Helath
Pope Francis health is steadily improving following treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he has been receiving care for pneumonia in both lungs.
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Pope Francis has faced multiple respiratory challenges in recent years, often requiring hospital stays, raising concerns among the Catholic faithful about his long-term health.
The recent hospitalizations spark concerns over the pope conditions. However, Vatican spokespersons have assured that his condition remains stable.
The Pope’s return home comes as a relief to Catholics worldwide who have been praying for his recovery. However, despite his discharge, Francis is not expected to resume his full schedule immediately, as doctors have advised continued rest to ensure his full recovery.
(Raidi/Agung)
