Ajit Karn
Rome: Saturday, after being treated for bronchitis, Pope Francis departed the hospital and returned to the Vatican, making light of his ailment by remarking, “You know, I’m still alive.”
The 86-year-old pontiff was rushed to the Gemelli hospital in Rome on Wednesday after complaining of respiratory difficulties, but he responded quickly to an infusion of antibiotics, according to his medical team.
To demonstrate that he had completely recovered, Francis used a walking staff to exit the hospital grounds after exiting his vehicle.
He greeted well-wishers and spoke briefly with reporters in attendance, affirming that he would preside over the Palm Sunday service in St. Peter’s Square and deliver his weekly address to the devout.
Sunday’s service sets off a week of Easter celebrations, with the Vatican subsequently announcing that the pontiff, accompanied by cardinals, will participate.
Francis embraced a weeping mother whose young daughter had died overnight in the hospital and then prayed with both parents before returning to his vehicle.
In addition, he signed the plaster cast of a juvenile child with a fractured arm and waved as he drove away from the hospital.
When asked by reporters if he was frightened during his hospitalization, the pontiff replied, “No, I was not afraid.”
“In a hospital there is a great deal of heroism and compassion for patients. You know that sick people are capricious. Capriciousness is a symptom of illness. You must be patient,” he said, applauding the Gemelli’s entire staff.
“I visited the children’s ward and observed how tenderly they treated the patients,” he said.
After responding the numerous queries, he joked, “Now I must sleep for four days.”
In March, the pontiff celebrated the tenth anniversary of his pontificate. In recent years, he has endured a variety of afflictions.
The last time he was hospitalized was in 2021 for colon surgery, but he was concealed as he departed the Gemelli.
He confronts a difficult week as the Roman Catholic Church prepares for Easter Sunday on April 9 with a series of ceremonies, services, and processions. Easter Sunday is the most significant date on the church’s calendar.
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Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the college of cardinals, has already stated that a cardinal will assist the pontiff during the week’s celebrations and perform altar duties.
Last year, the pontiff sat on the sidelines during certain Easter events due to persistent knee discomfort, allowing senior cardinals to preside over the Masses.
