VATICAN CITY – Reports suggest that the Swiss Guard, responsible for protecting Pope Francis, has begun rehearsing funeral protocols as concerns grow over the 88-year-old pontiff’s deteriorating health. The pope has allegedly voiced fears that he “may not survive” his battle with pneumonia.
According to Swiss newspaper Blick, as cited by the Daily Mail, preparations for the pontiff’s funeral are already underway within the Vatican. However, Vatican officials have not issued an official statement on the matter.
POPE HOSPITALIZED FOR SEVERE RESPIRATORY INFECTION
Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital after developing a respiratory infection. Initially diagnosed with bronchitis, the Vatican confirmed on Tuesday (Feb. 18) that his condition had progressed to double pneumonia, a serious infection affecting both lungs. Doctors have since adjusted his treatment in response to the severity of his illness.
HEALTH STATUS AND MEDICAL TREATMENT
Medical reports indicate that the pope is suffering from a polymicrobial respiratory infection, meaning multiple microorganisms are contributing to his condition. Despite concerns, the Vatican reassured the public that he is breathing independently and has stable heart function.
“The pope is awake, eating, and has gotten out of bed after a restful night,” a Vatican spokesperson said.
POPE’S ONGOING HEALTH STRUGGLES
Since assuming the papacy in 2013, Pope Francis has faced several health challenges. In June 2023, he spent nine days in the hospital after undergoing surgery for an abdominal hernia. His limited mobility, which often requires him to use a wheelchair, has made it more difficult to clear fluids from his lungs, increasing the risk of complications.
GLOBAL SUPPORT AND WELL-WISHES
Expressions of support for Pope Francis have poured in from around the world. Pilgrims gathered at St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday (Feb. 19), where the pope’s weekly audience was canceled, offering prayers for his recovery. Meanwhile, children from Gemelli Hospital’s oncology ward sent him drawings and messages of encouragement. Outside the hospital, well-wishers placed flowers and personal notes beneath a statue of Pope John Paul II.
NO SET DATE FOR DISCHARGE
The Vatican has not provided a timeline for the pope’s release, stating that his “complex clinical condition” requires a hospital stay of undetermined length.
“We continue to monitor his progress and will adjust treatment as needed,” the Vatican’s latest statement read.
As global concerns grow over the pontiff’s condition, Vatican officials maintain that he remains stable and is responding to medical care.