Vatican officials have disclosed that Pope Francis experienced a severe breathing crisis during his hospitalization, marked by an episode of vomiting that led to inhalation—a concerning complication in his ongoing struggle with respiratory illness. The 88-year-old pontiff, who has been battling double pneumonia since his admission to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14, required non-invasive mechanical ventilation to stabilize his condition.
Medical Emergency and Treatment
According to Vatican sources, the crisis occurred after a morning of respiratory physiotherapy and prayer in the hospital chapel. The Pope suffered an “isolated attack of bronchospasm,” which triggered vomiting and subsequent inhalation, abruptly worsening his breathing. Medical teams promptly intervened, using aspiration and mechanical ventilation to restore oxygen levels. While the Vatican reported a “good response” to treatment, they emphasized that his prognosis remains “reserved,” underscoring the fragility of his health.
Despite the setback, Pope Francis remained “vigilant and oriented,” participating actively in his care. He received the Eucharist earlier in the day, a testament to his unwavering spiritual resolve.
Long Road to Recovery
The Pope’s extended hospitalization has forced the Vatican to adjust its liturgical calendar. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis will lead Ash Wednesday ceremonies on March 5, signaling that Francis’ recovery will likely stretch into the Lenten season. This marks the first time in his papacy that he will miss the solemn ritual, which inaugurates the 40-day period of fasting and reflection leading to Easter.
Global Outpouring of Support
As news of the Pope’s condition spread, Catholics worldwide rallied in prayer. In Mexico City, devotees gathered at the cathedral to light candles and recite rosaries. Araceli Gutierrez, who met Francis during his 2016 visit, shared, “He is like part of the family. We feel so concerned for him.” Similar vigils were held in Brazil and Colombia, where Maria Teresa Sanchez, a pilgrim from Bogotá, praised the pontiff’s humility and global impact.
Funeral Preparations and Historical Context
Reports from Swiss media outlet Blick revealed that the Swiss Guard, responsible for the Pope’s security, has begun discreet rehearsals for potential funeral arrangements. While the Vatican has not officially commented, the preparations align with Francis’ own recent acknowledgment that he “might not make it this time.” His health struggles follow a pattern of recurring respiratory issues, including a 2023 hospitalization for bronchitis and a partial lung removal in his youth due to infection.
A Papacy Defined by Resilience
Francis’ tenure has been marked by transparency about his health challenges, a departure from the secrecy of past papacies. Yet his determination to lead persists—even from his hospital bed, where he continues to review newspapers and engage in prayer. Doctors have barred him from public duties, forcing the cancellation of key engagements, but his influence remains undiminished among the faithful.
What’s Next?
As the Catholic world holds its breath, the focus turns to Francis’ resilience and the Church’s preparedness for transition. With Easter approaching, the Vatican faces dual challenges: supporting the Pope’s recovery while ensuring continuity in its spiritual leadership.
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Keywords: Pope Francis health update, Vatican hospitalization, breathing crisis, double pneumonia, Ash Wednesday 2025, Catholic Church news.
