Pope Francis gave an update on his medical crisis Sunday as he remained in serious condition battling double pneumonia in a Rome hospital.
The 88-year-old pope shared that he was “confidently continuing” his health battle in a written message of his regular Angelus prayer, which he traditionally delivers Sundays from an open window at the papal apartments on St. Peter’s Square.
“On my part, I am confidently continuing my hospitalization at the Gemelli Hospital, carrying on with the necessary treatment; and rest is also part of the therapy,” the pope said, according to Catholic News Agency.
“I sincerely thank the doctors and health workers of this hospital for the attention they are showing me and the dedication with which they carry out their service among the sick.”
The Vatican also gave a brief update on the pope’s health Sunday morning, a day after it was reported that he suffered a respiratory crisis that required high-flow oxygen therapy and a blood transfusion. It noted he was conscious but still receiving high flows of supplemental oxygen.
“The night passed uneventfully, the pope rested,” the Vatican said.
Unlike previous updates, the statement did not state whether he was eating or out of bed.
In a second update Sunday afternoon, the Vatican said his health remained “critical” but he had experienced “no further respiratory crisis.”
Some blood tests indicated that he was experiencing mild kidney failure, though it remains under control, according to the Vatican.
The Catholic leader was first admitted to the hospital on Feb. 14 after being ill for a week with bronchitis.
His recent scare appears to be his most serious health challenge yet, though he has dealt with a number of setbacks over the years, including multiple falls, abdominal surgery, and bouts of influenza.
In his youth, Francis had a portion of his lung removed, leaving him susceptible to respiratory infections.
Politico reported last week the pope has told confidants he may not survive his latest health challenge and “is rushing to tie up loose ends ahead of the battle to succeed him.”
