By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
After five weeks of recovery, Pope Francis made his first public appearance since battling severe pneumonia, stepping out onto a hospital balcony at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital to bless the gathered crowd.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who had been treated for bronchitis and pneumonia since February, showed signs of frailty but offered a thumbs-up and a tired smile to the onlookers.
“I see the woman with the yellow flowers. Brava!” he remarked before making a gentle sign of the cross.
The sight of the pope brought joy to those present, with shouts of “Viva il papa!” and “Papa Francesco!” ringing through the air. His brief appearance occurred just before his release from the hospital, as he prepares to rest for two months at the Vatican.
Dr. Rossella Russomando, who was at the hospital, expressed relief, noting, “This is proof that all the prayers, all the rosaries from around the world, have brought us this grace.”
The pope, who had endured two serious respiratory crises, was discharged with plans for continued care. His personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, shared that the pope had been eager to return home. “For the past three or four days, he’s been asking when he could go home, so he’s very happy,” Carbone said.
Though the pope’s recovery has been difficult, doctors remain hopeful. Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who led the medical team, recalled a positive moment when Francis, showing his sense of humor, remarked, “I’m still alive!” signaling a shift in his recovery.
Despite still needing supplemental oxygen and undergoing physiotherapy, the Vatican is optimistic that the pope will regain strength over time. However, the future of his upcoming engagements is uncertain, with no confirmation yet on his participation in Easter services or an anticipated meeting with King Charles III in April.
The pope’s recovery has brought immense relief to both the Vatican and his devoted followers, many of whom have been anxiously awaiting news of his health.
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