Pope Francis beats double pneumonia, returns home after longest hospital stay

Pope Francis will be discharged from Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Sunday after more than a month-long battle with double pneumonia, confirmed Sergio Alfieri, the lead doctor overseeing his care. “We’re pleased to share that tomorrow he’ll be back home,” Alfieri stated during Saturday’s press briefing.

The 88-year-old pontiff, hospitalized since February 14, faced multiple health crises during his stay, including kidney trouble, respiratory failure, and the onset of diabetes. However, he steadily improved after critical weeks. Doctors now say he is stable, though he’ll continue medication and require at least two months of rest and limited activity.

Despite his frailty and lung removal in youth, Pope Francis remained mentally sharp. Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni revealed that Francis will briefly appear on Sunday at the hospital balcony to bless followers before returning to his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta.

This hospital stay has been the longest since his election in 2013. Throughout, the Vatican released audio messages and photos showing the pope praying and thanking the faithful for their prayers. Last week, he reaffirmed leadership by approving a fresh three-year reform agenda, focusing on greater inclusion of women and laypeople in church governance.

Here’s a snapshot of his journey:

Feb 14: Hospitalized for bronchitis.
Feb 18: Diagnosed with double pneumonia.
Feb 22: Required assisted breathing.
March 6: Sent audio message; weak but recovering.
March 22: Doctors confirm discharge.

Pope Francis now begins his extended convalescence, a testament to resilience.

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