In brief
In his first public outing since hospitalization, Pope Francis greeted crowds warmly, waving from a wheelchair and expressing gratitude to supporters.
Pope Francis delighted the crowds gathered at St. Peter's Square in the Vatican with a surprise appearance following his recent discharge from a five-week hospitalization. The 88-year-old Pope emerged in a wheelchair, sporting an oxygen tube beneath his nose, to offer his heartfelt greetings. "Hello to everybody," he exclaimed, as cheers erupted from the gathered audience. "Happy Sunday to all of you, thank you very much."After being admitted to the hospital on February 14 due to an infection that led to double pneumonia, he was discharged on March 23. Initially, doctors advised that he would require at least two months of rest at his residence. However, a recent statement from the Vatican indicated a positive shift in his health, describing him as "in good spirits" while he resumed his usual work activities.Throughout his treatment, Pope Francis faced significant health challenges, including two critical episodes that raised concerns about his life. Fortunately, as of Friday, his breathing, movement, and speaking have shown slight improvement, as confirmed by blood tests indicating progress in combating the lung infection. He currently needs less supplemental oxygen during the day but continues to use it regularly, particularly at night.Throughout his lifetime, the Pope has dealt with several health issues, having undergone surgery to remove part of a lung at 21 years old, which has made him more vulnerable to infections. As he approaches his twelfth year as Pope, his presence at the Vatican remains a source of hope and resilience for many.
