(TheIndependentStar.com) – After fighting for his life against pneumonia during a harrowing 5-week hospital stay, Pope Francis has returned to the Vatican.
The 88-year-old pontiff suffered four acute respiratory crises during his ordeal, with doctors confirming two were life-threatening.
The Holy Father’s hospitalization marks the longest hospital stay of his papacy and the second-longest in recent papal history, surpassed only by St. John Paul II’s 55-day stay in 1981.
Despite showing signs of weakness, the Pope appeared in good spirits as he emerged on the balcony of Rome’s Gemelli hospital to bless the faithful crowd below before his discharge.
As the crowd celebrated with enthusiastic chants of “Viva il papa!” and “Papa Francesco,” the Pope acknowledged their support with a blessing.
However, his voice remained noticeably frail from weeks of oxygen therapy.
Pope Francis spotted a woman in the crowd holding yellow flowers and called out to her. “I see this woman with the yellow flowers. Brava!” the Pope said.
The Pope’s personal physician, Dr Luigi Carbone, said, “For three or four days he’s been asking when he can go home, so he’s very happy.”
The pontiff’s journey home included two unplanned stops. Instead of rushing straight to the Vatican, Francis first visited the Basilica of Saint Mary Major to pray.
He also paused to greet a local dog walker, showing his characteristic humility and connection to everyday people.
Doctors have ordered a full two months of rest and recovery for the pontiff at Casa Santa Marta in the Vatican.
He will continue taking medication for a fungal lung infection and undergo respiratory and physical therapy.
No special arrangements have been made at his residence, but medical care will remain available as needed.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who led the medical team treating the Pope, emphasized that Francis would need time for a full recovery.
This comes at a challenging time, as the ongoing Holy Year is expected to draw over 30 million pilgrims to Rome.
Spanish nun Luisa Jimenez summed up faithfuls’ feelings when she said it was “an important emotional experience to see him” and that “so many people [were] waiting for this moment.”
The Pope’s health crisis began on February 14 when he was admitted with bronchitis, later diagnosed as bilateral pneumonia and a severe respiratory infection.
His medical vulnerability stems partly from having had a portion of his right lung removed in his 20s.
As the Vatican prepares for the Pope’s gradual return to his duties, believers worldwide continue their prayers for his complete recovery.
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