Pope Francis has asked the doctors treating him to be completely transparent about his health condition. The report released on Saturday night was particularly harsh, even blunt in some aspects, reflecting growing concern over the worsening of his condition.
This may have been the most difficult day for the Pontiff, who has now been hospitalized for nine days at Gemelli Hospital in Rome due to complications from bilateral pneumonia.
In recent hours, his health has shown a clear deterioration. Today, he suffered a prolonged respiratory crisis, prompting doctors to declare a reserved prognosis. The Vatican’s bulletin reveals complications that had not been mentioned in previous reports.
The daily medical report describes an especially delicate situation:
“The Holy Father’s condition remains critical, and as stated yesterday, he is not out of danger. This morning, Pope Francis experienced a prolonged asthmatic respiratory crisis, requiring the administration of high-flow oxygen.”
Additionally, the doctors reported:
“Blood tests conducted today revealed thrombocytopenia associated with anemia, necessitating the administration of blood transfusions.”
Despite this, the report states:
“The Holy Father remains conscious, although more weakened than yesterday. He has spent the day sitting in a chair, but at this moment, his prognosis remains reserved.”
Although the Pontiff had rested well the previous night, his condition has worsened on multiple fronts. Beyond the upcoming medical evaluations, several days will be needed to assess the effectiveness of the treatments, considering that he is battling a polymicrobial infection and, at 88 years old, despite his great resilience, also faces inherent vulnerabilities.
On Friday, it was announced that his hospitalization would be extended for at least another week, though, given the circumstances, it could be prolonged even further.
