Pope Francis’ Health Takes A Sudden Turn
Pope Francis was reported to be in critical condition on Saturday, with the Vatican announcing that he had undergone a blood transfusion due to his deteriorating health. The 88-year-old pontiff, suffering from double pneumonia, was hospitalized at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital and placed on high-flow oxygen to address breathing complications.
The Pope had been admitted to the hospital on February 14 following several days of respiratory issues, and tests confirmed that he had pneumonia in both lungs. The Vatican described the infection as complex, with multiple microorganisms contributing to his illness, which led to an extended asthma-like respiratory crisis. Although Pope Francis remained alert, his condition worsened compared to the previous day.
In addition to oxygen support, the Pope required blood transfusions due to anemia-related low platelet counts, which heightened concerns about his condition. Vatican officials indicated that he was still in a vulnerable state and not yet out of danger. For the second Sunday in a row, the Pope was unable to deliver the traditional Angelus prayer in person, an unusual occurrence during his 12-year tenure.
In a written message, Pope Francis expressed gratitude to the medical staff and those who had sent prayers and messages of support. He particularly acknowledged the many letters and drawings he had received from children, thanking everyone for their care and closeness. The Pope also took the opportunity to remember the victims of conflicts worldwide, calling for prayers for peace in war-torn regions like Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, and Sudan.
Due to his history of lung issues—stemming from pleurisy and a partial lung removal in his youth—Pope Francis remains highly susceptible to respiratory complications. Medical experts have warned that his condition is delicate, and any sudden changes could pose significant risks. The pontiff’s past hospitalizations, including a brief stay in 2023 for bronchitis, have not stopped him from leading the Roman Catholic Church, and he has consistently emphasized the importance of transparency regarding his health.