Pope Francis Faces Health Setback but Remains Stable, Drinks Coffee/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ Morning Edition/ Pope Francis, 88, experienced a respiratory setback in his recovery from double pneumonia, requiring noninvasive mechanical ventilation after inhaling vomit during a severe coughing fit on Friday. Despite the alarming episode, the Vatican reported no further crises overnight, stating that Francis had coffee Saturday morning, signaling he was breathing independently and still able to eat. Doctors say his prognosis remains guarded, with the next 24-48 hours crucial in assessing his condition. Prayers continue to pour in from around the world, as pilgrims gather in Assisi and Rome for the Vatican’s Holy Year celebrations.
Pope Francis’ Health Update: Quick Look
- Friday afternoon setback: Pope inhaled vomit during a bronchial spasm, requiring urgent medical intervention.
- Noninvasive mechanical ventilation used: Helped stabilize oxygen levels.
- Saturday morning improvement: The Vatican confirmed no further respiratory crises, and the pope drank coffee for breakfast.
- Doctors monitoring closely: Next 24-48 hours crucial in determining full impact of the episode.
- Global support: Pilgrims continue praying for Francis in Rome and Assisi as Holy Year events proceed.
Pope Francis Faces Health Setback but Remains Stable, Drinks Coffee
Health Setback and Medical Response
On Friday afternoon, Pope Francis suffered a bronchial spasm—a severe coughing episode that led to him inhaling vomit. Doctors had to aspirate the fluid and place him on noninvasive mechanical ventilation to stabilize his breathing.
The Vatican described the episode as an “isolated crisis”, but medical experts warn it is a serious concern, particularly given Francis’ history of lung disease and prior lung surgery.
Despite the alarming turn, the pope remained alert and cooperative throughout the procedure. Oxygen levels improved, and by Saturday morning, he was stable enough to drink coffee and read newspapers—a hopeful sign that he was breathing well enough without full dependence on ventilation.
Medical Experts Express Concern
Doctors not involved in the pope’s care say the episode underscores his fragility.
- Dr. John Coleman, a pulmonary specialist at Northwestern Medicine, called the event “extremely concerning”, warning that such respiratory complications can “turn very quickly” at Francis’ age.
- Dr. William Feldman, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, noted that noninvasive ventilation is often used to prevent full intubation, adding that while Francis’ alertness was a positive sign, his overall prognosis remains uncertain.
While the Vatican has not resumed referring to the pope as being in “critical condition”, they maintain that his recovery is not yet assured.
Pilgrims and Catholic Leaders Continue Prayers
As the Vatican’s Holy Year celebrations bring thousands of pilgrims to Rome, many have made special trips to pray for Pope Francis.
In Assisi, the hometown of St. Francis, religious visitors expressed concern and hope for the pope’s recovery:
- Rev. Jacinto Bento, visiting from the Azores, said, “Every day we’re praying for the pope. We’re very sad for his situation.”
- Veronica Abraham, an Argentine pilgrim, said, “I’m sure he’s hearing our prayers and feels our closeness.”
- Serena Barbon, visiting from Treviso, reflected on Francis’ legacy, saying, “We pray for him and that any new pope might also be someone who puts the poor in the center. Because we’re all a bit the poor.”
What’s Next?
Doctors say they need 24 to 48 hours to evaluate whether Friday’s respiratory crisis caused any lasting impact on the pope’s condition. The Vatican is expected to provide further updates as his recovery progresses.
For now, Pope Francis remains stable, but his health remains fragile—and the world continues to watch and pray.
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