Pope Francis is showing “slight improvements” in breathing, speech, and mobility following his return home after more than five weeks in the hospital, the Vatican said Thursday.
The 88-year-old pontiff was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli hospital on March 23 and is adhering to his doctors’ recovery plan, the Vatican press office reported on March 28.
His daily routine includes prayer, breathing exercises, physical therapy, and rest, along with reviewing documents sent from Vatican offices to his residence at the Domus Sanctae Marthae. Each morning, he celebrates Mass in a small chapel near his bedroom and office, the press office said.
Pope Francis has not been receiving visitors but spends time with his medical team, including a doctor on duty around the clock, and his private secretaries. The Vatican confirmed he continues treatment for a fungal infection and requires high-flow oxygen therapy only during part of the night. Recent blood test results were within normal limits.
On March 28, the pope prayed for victims of a devastating earthquake in Myanmar and Thailand. In a telegram to civil and church leaders, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin conveyed the pope’s sorrow over the “loss of life and widespread devastation,” assuring his prayers for the victims and strength for emergency responders.
Despite the Vatican releasing the Holy Week and Easter schedule, officials said it remains uncertain whether Pope Francis will be able to attend.
Meanwhile, Polish President Andrzej Duda visited the Vatican on March 28 and met with Cardinal Parolin. Duda, who also made a pilgrimage to St. Peter’s Basilica the previous day, brought a rosary as a gift for the pope.
The Vatican announced that Cardinal Parolin will preside over a memorial Mass on April 2 at St. Peter’s Basilica, marking 20 years since the death of Pope John Paul II.
