By Charles Igwe
Pope Francis remains at Gemelli Hospital in Rome for a sixth night as he continues treatment for bilateral pneumonia, the Vatican confirmed on Wednesday morning. Officials reported that the 86-year-old pontiff had a “quiet night” and was able to wake up and have breakfast as usual.
The pope’s health condition prompted the Vatican to cancel several upcoming events, including weekend jubilee celebrations, as he undergoes additional treatment.
On Tuesday, U.S. Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic, publicly joined calls for prayers for Pope Francis’ recovery, adding his voice to the global outpouring of support for the Holy Father.
Medical tests conducted earlier on Tuesday revealed that Pope Francis had developed double pneumonia, requiring further medical intervention. According to a statement from the Holy See Press Office, laboratory tests, a chest X-ray, and the pope’s overall clinical condition present a complex picture.
A CT scan performed Tuesday afternoon confirmed the onset of bilateral pneumonia, leading doctors to prescribe additional drug therapy.
Despite his condition, the Vatican assured that Pope Francis remains in good spirits.
“This morning, he received the Eucharist and spent the day alternating between rest, prayer, and reading. He is deeply grateful for the support and prayers and asks that we continue to keep him in our thoughts,” the Vatican statement read.
The world now awaits further updates on the pope’s recovery, as prayers and well-wishes continue to pour in from across the globe.
