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Pope Francis is fighting for his life. The 88-year-old leader of the Catholic Church remains in critical condition, with doctors at Gemelli Hospital in Rome working around the clock to stabilize him after a severe lung infection led to a dangerous respiratory crisis.
The Vatican confirmed Saturday that Francis is not out of danger, marking the first time officials have publicly described his condition as critical since he was admitted to the hospital on February 14.
According to a statement from the Holy See, the Pope suffered an “asthma-like respiratory crisis of prolonged intensity”, requiring high-flow oxygen therapy. His doctors also administered blood transfusions after tests revealed low platelet levels, a condition known as thrombocytopenia, which can indicate anemia or an increased risk of bleeding.
Despite his worsening condition, Vatican officials say Francis remains mentally alert and has continued working from his hospital room, spending most of his time in an armchair. But they acknowledge that his pain levels have increased since Friday.
Doctors at Gemelli Hospital are keeping a close watch on the Pope’s condition, warning that the greatest immediate threat is the potential onset of sepsis—a life-threatening blood infection that can develop as a complication of pneumonia.
So far, blood tests haven’t shown signs of sepsis, but the risk is high given his age and existing lung disease.
“Sepsis, combined with his respiratory condition and age, would be incredibly difficult to recover from,” said Dr. Sergio Alfieri, head of medicine and surgery at Gemelli Hospital.
Speaking candidly about the situation, Alfieri added: “He knows he’s in danger. And he told us to make sure people understand that.”
Outside Gemelli Hospital, crowds have gathered to pray, light candles, and hold vigil for Francis. Some kneel in front of a statue of Pope John Paul II, who also spent his final days at the same hospital.
Inside the Vatican, top church officials are reportedly preparing for all possible outcomes, though they remain hopeful for the Pope’s recovery. While Francis has continued to receive visitors and review documents, his doctors have severely limited his schedule and are urging him to rest.
Francis, who has a history of lung disease, was admitted to the hospital after a week-long case of bronchitis developed into a serious respiratory infection. Doctors later diagnosed him with pneumonia in both lungs, complicated by a viral, bacterial, and fungal infection.
His treatment includes a mix of cortisone, antibiotics, and supplemental oxygen, but his advanced age and fragile health make his recovery uncertain.
The first pope from the Americas, Francis has led the Catholic Church since 2013, championing reforms, social justice, and compassion for the marginalized. Now, as his health battle intensifies, the world is watching and praying for a leader whose influence has stretched far beyond the walls of the Vatican.
*With information from Euronews, CNN, Reuters
