Officials have released a new update on Sunday evening regarding the condition of Pope Francis amid the Pontiff's ongoing health battle.
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The 88-year-old Pope - who was admitted to the hospital on February 14 - has now spent over a week in hospital as he continues to battle double pneumonia and a "guarded prognosis".
Following a "tranquil" ninth night at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, Vatican officials have reported that "the condition of the Holy Father remains critical". They have also shared several updates on The Pope's ongoing treatments.
The Latest Update On The Pope's Condition
The most recent update from The Holy See Press Office - shared on the evening of February 23 - reveals that Pope Francis is still in a "critical" condition.
"The condition of the Holy Father remains critical, but since yesterday evening, he has not experienced any further respiratory crises," the statement begins. "He received two units of concentrated red blood cells with beneficial effects, and his hemoglobin levels have risen.
"The thrombocytopenia remains stable; however, some blood tests show early, mild renal insufficiency, which is currently under control.
"High-flow oxygen therapy continues through nasal cannulas.
"The Holy Father remains alert and well-oriented.
"The complexity of the clinical situation and the necessary time for the pharmacological treatments to show results require that the prognosis remain guarded.
"This morning, in the apartment on the tenth floor, he participated in the Holy Mass, together with those who have been taking care of him during these days of hospitalization."
Pope Sends Message Of Gratitude
Despite his ongoing health battle, a message from Pope Francis was shared this morning in preparation for the Sunday Angelus, which was read on his behalf.
"I am confidently continuing my hospitalisation at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy," he said.
"I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick."
The Pope also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support he has received from across the world.
"In recent days I have received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children," he wrote. "Thank you for this closeness, and for the prayers of comfort I have received from all over the world!"
Concluding his message, he entrusted his followers to the intercession of Mary, asking them to continue praying for him during this challenging time.
Vatican sources confirmed that the message was written during the last few days.
As mentioned above, The Pope did "participate in the Holy Mass" on Sunday with those who are caring for him, officials have revealed.
Concerns Over His Health Intensify
On Saturday night, concerns over the Pope’s health deepened after he suffered a “prolonged respiratory crisis”, requiring high-flow oxygen support. Doctors confirmed he is still struggling with severe breathing issues, though he is not on a ventilator.
At a press conference on Friday, Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the head of the Pope’s medical team, and Dr. Luigi Carbone, Vice-Director of the Vatican’s healthcare service, emphasized that while Francis is not in immediate danger of death, his condition is still serious.
They also warned of a potential risk of sepsis, should bacteria from his respiratory tract enter his bloodstream.
Despite these risks, Dr. Alfieri said he remains hopeful that the Pope will eventually be discharged, though his chronic respiratory issues will persist.
READ MORE: Prayers from around the globe pour in for Pope Francis
For now, the world watches and prays as Pope Francis continues his fight for recovery—his faith unshaken, and his message of gratitude unwavering.