Pope Francis First Statement After Discharge From Hospital

Rome: Pope Francis made his first public appearance on Sunday, after being hospitalized for five weeks due to a severe respiratory illness. Addressing a crowd of well-wishers outside Rome's Gemelli Hospital, the 88-year-old pontiff gave a thumbs-up and thanked supporters as he was wheeled onto the hospital’s balcony.

Pope Francis Leaves Hospital After 38-Day Stay

Hundreds of people gathered under the sunny morning sky to witness the Pope’s discharge. Before departing, he waved from the front seat of his car, where he was seen wearing a nasal cannula for oxygen support.

The Catholic Church leader had been admitted to Gemelli Hospital on February 14 with breathing difficulties, which later developed into double pneumonia—an infection affecting both lungs. His 38-day stay was the longest hospitalization of his papacy and one of the longest in recent Vatican history.

Pope Francis Needs Two Months of Rest

Following his release, doctors advised Pope Francis to rest for at least two months at the Vatican, according to a BBC report.

Dr. Sergio Alfieri, one of the Pope’s treating doctors, revealed that Francis experienced two critical episodes where his life was in danger. However, he assured that the Pope was never intubated and always remained alert and oriented.

“The Pope is not completely healed but does not have pneumonia anymore. His condition is stable,” Dr. Alfieri said.

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Pope Francis Struggles With His Voice

Medical experts warned that Pope Francis might face temporary voice issues due to the illness.

Dr. Alfieri explained, "Patients with double pneumonia lose their voice a little, and in the elderly, like Pope Francis, it takes time for the voice to return to normal."

On Friday, Cardinal Victor Fernandez stated that the high-flow oxygen therapy used during treatment had dried out the Pope’s throat, causing speech difficulties. "The Pope needs to relearn how to speak," Fernandez told Reuters.

Pope Francis’ History of Lung Problems

Pope Francis has a long-standing respiratory condition, dating back to his youth when part of his lung was removed.

Doctors at Gemelli Hospital diagnosed him with a complex respiratory infection involving bacteria, viruses, and fungi, which later developed into double pneumonia.

His prolonged hospitalization had sparked concerns over his health, with speculation about a possible resignation or even preparations for his funeral, reported AFP.

For now, Pope Francis will continue his recovery at the Vatican, where he is expected to limit public appearances while regaining his strength.