The Vatican announced on Friday that Pope Francis had encountered a concerning health issue described as an “isolated breathing crisis.” The 88-year-old pontiff responded well to treatment and remained conscious and alert throughout the incident. He received non-invasive mechanical ventilation to assist with breathing following a bronchial spasm that caused him to inhale vomit. This development occurred as he continued to battle double pneumonia during his two-week stay in the hospital, raising significant health concerns.
Medical professionals are cautiously monitoring the pope’s condition following the recent episode. A Vatican official, speaking anonymously, revealed that the breathing difficulties were not prolonged, and a period of 24 to 48 hours was needed for doctors to assess the impact on his overall health status.
Although the pontiff has not been classified as being in critical condition in recent days, the Vatican provided a detailed update stating that he experienced an isolated bronchospasm crisis along with vomiting aspiration and a sudden deterioration in respiratory function. Despite these challenges, Pope Francis remained alert and oriented while continuing his treatments.
While there is no official timeline for his hospital stay, the Vatican confirmed that he would not preside over the upcoming Ash Wednesday service to mark the beginning of Lent. Instead, a senior Vatican official will oversee the ceremony on March 5. Nonetheless, reports indicate that the pope’s recovery is progressing steadily, with improvements noted in his respiratory function and overall condition.
Pope Francis, who has been at Gemelli Hospital since February 14 due to worsening bronchitis, has received widespread support and well-wishes from around the globe. Despite facing various health setbacks in recent years, the pontiff’s resilience and perseverance have been evident throughout his ongoing medical treatment.
Francis, having been particularly vulnerable to lung infections due to a history of pleurisy in his youth and the partial removal of one lung, faces the grave threat of double pneumonia. This severe lung infection can cause inflammation and scarring, leading to breathing difficulties. Despite the seriousness of his health condition, Francis, known for his compassionate stance towards migrants, divorcees, and gay Catholics, has humorously commented that some critics within the Catholic Church may have wished for his demise.
Critics have even gone as far as labeling Francis as the “woke Pope” due to his progressive and inclusive beliefs. As the time nears for the selection of the next Pope, it will be up to the 138 cardinals aged 80 or below to make this significant decision. Notably, 110 of these cardinals were appointed by Francis himself, adding an intriguing layer to the upcoming election process.
The selection of the new Pontiff will take place in a secretive manner, typically occurring approximately two weeks after the passing of the current Pope. This timeframe allows cardinals from various corners of the globe to convene in Rome for the momentous occasion. Among the potential candidates for the papacy are Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, who serves as the Vatican secretary of state, and Cardinal Peter Turkson from Ghana.
Should Cardinal Tagle, aged 67, ascend to the papacy, he would become the first Asian Pope in history. On the other hand, Cardinal Turkson, aged 76, could potentially become the first sub-Saharan African to hold this influential position. The anticipation surrounding the selection of the next Pope is palpable, as the future leader of the Catholic Church will undoubtedly shape the course of history.
Uncover a world of exceptional British journalism by exploring The Telegraph. Experience our renowned website, exclusive app, money-saving offers, and more with a complimentary one-month trial. Broaden your perspectives and stay informed with The Telegraph today.
