Pope Francis is scheduled to be discharged from Rome's Gemelli Hospital on Sunday, after a 37-day stay due to double pneumonia. Doctors announced that the 88-year-old pope is now in stable condition but will require at least two months of rest and rehabilitation at his residence in the Vatican.
The pope will make his first public appearance in five weeks from the hospital window at noon local time (7 a.m. ET), where he plans to greet and bless the gathered faithful. This event follows a challenging health period that included critical episodes during his treatment but ultimately led to significant improvements in his condition.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the medical director overseeing the pope's care, confirmed that Francis experienced two life-threatening moments during his hospitalization. However, he remained alert throughout and never required intubation. Although he is no longer suffering from pneumonia, his doctors noted that recovery of his voice may take time due to the respiratory challenges he faced.
Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni indicated that while the pope has shown progress in breathing and motor skills, he will need ongoing physiotherapy and support, including oxygen assistance, during his recovery at home. The Vatican has arranged for comprehensive medical care to ensure his health as he transitions back to his duties.