Pope Francis’s Road to Recovery: Lengthy Rehabilitation Needed to Restore Speech
Pope’s Condition Update
Pope Francis, currently undergoing treatment for pneumonia, will require lengthy rehabilitation to restore his speech, according to Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, the prefect of the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith. The cardinal made the statement during an event in Rome on Friday.
Physiological Challenges
Fernandez explained that the Pope’s body reacted as expected, and now he needs rehabilitation to overcome the challenges of prolonged oxygen therapy. "I had an opportunity to talk to him, and I am happy because I knew that his body might react this or that way, and eventually I was right, because physically he is feeling well. Now he needs rehabilitation, because after a long time with the intensive oxygen flow, everything goes dry and then you need to almost learn to speak again," he said.
Suggestion of Retirement Dismissed
Fernandez also dismissed suggestions that Pope Francis might retire, stating that in his opinion, the Pope will not be sent home from hospital before Easter. "He might return, but the doctors want to be 100 per cent sure and want to wait for a while," he added.
Progress in Recovery
On Wednesday, the Holy See announced that the Pope no longer requires ventilation at night, and improvements in physical therapy continue. On March 6, the pontiff recorded an audio message, thanking people for their prayers for his recovery.
Background
The Pope was admitted to Rome’s Gremelli Hospital on February 14, where he was diagnosed with a respiratory infection and double pneumonia.
Conclusion
Pope Francis’s road to recovery is expected to be a lengthy one, with a focus on restoring his speech. While the suggestion of retirement has been dismissed, the Pope’s return to full health remains the priority. As he continues to make progress, the world waits with bated breath for his eventual return to public duties.
FAQs
- What is Pope Francis’s current condition?
Pope Francis is undergoing treatment for pneumonia and is expected to require lengthy rehabilitation to restore his speech. - Will Pope Francis retire?
No, according to Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, who dismissed suggestions of retirement, stating that the Pope will not be sent home from hospital before Easter. - What is the current status of the Pope’s recovery?
The Pope no longer requires ventilation at night, and improvements in physical therapy continue. He is expected to make a full recovery.