Pope Francis Recovering After Critical Health Crisis That Nearly Claimed His Life

Following a life-threatening respiratory episode in February, the Pope has returned to Casa Santa Marta for a prolonged recovery under medical supervision.

Pope Francis, 88, experienced a severe respiratory crisis on February 28, including a bronchospasm and aspiration, during treatment for bilateral pneumonia.
His medical team considered halting treatment due to risks of organ damage but ultimately decided to proceed after a decisive call by his personal nurse, Massimiliano Strappetti.
The Pope was hospitalized for over five weeks at Gemelli Hospital in Rome and discharged on March 23; he remains under medical care at Casa Santa Marta.
Doctors have prescribed respiratory therapy and advised against public engagements for at least two months, raising questions about his participation in Easter celebrations.
Despite his physical frailty, his mental sharpness remains intact, and he expressed gratitude to his supporters and medical team, even treating them to pizza after his recovery.

Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung