Pope Francis Shows Improvement in Pneumonia Battle, Kidney Issues Recede

Pope Francis is showing signs of recovery as he battles double pneumonia, according to the Holy See. The 88-year-old pontiff spent a peaceful night and was resting this morning at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he has been receiving treatment for nearly two weeks. Doctors have noted a slight improvement in his condition. Francis had breakfast and continued his therapy Thursday morning in good spirits. "The Pope slept well last night and is now resting," the Holy See said in a brief statement. We're all sending good vibes his way. The Vatican reported late Wednesday that the kidney insufficiency detected in recent days has receded. Blood tests also showed a slight improvement, and a chest CT scan indicated that his complex lung infection is progressing as expected under treatment. It's great to hear his kidney function is improving; that's definitely a relief. The Pope, who had part of one lung removed when he was younger, remains on "high-flow oxygen therapy" but has not experienced any further respiratory crises since Saturday. While Francis’ health showed a "slight improvement," the Vatican said, his "prognosis remains reserved." Francis was admitted to the hospital on February 14 after a week-long bout of bronchitis worsened. Doctors diagnosed the complex viral, bacterial, and fungal respiratory tract infection and subsequently the onset of pneumonia in both lungs. Thursday marked Francis' 13th day in the hospital, exceeding the longest hospitalization of his papacy. He spent 10 days at Gemelli Hospital in 2021 after he had 13 inches of his colon removed.