Sat Mar 22 18:55:39 UTC 2025: ## Pope Francis to be Released from Hospital After Month-Long Battle with Pneumonia

**Rome, Italy –** Pope Francis will be discharged from Rome’s Gemelli hospital on Sunday, March 23, 2025, after a 38-day stay battling a severe case of pneumonia in both lungs, his doctors announced Saturday. The 85-year-old pontiff, who experienced two life-threatening respiratory crises during his hospitalization, is expected to make a full recovery, though doctors have prescribed at least two months of rest and rehabilitation.

The Pope’s medical team, led by Dr. Sergio Alfieri, detailed the severity of the infection, which included a complex bacterial, viral, and fungal respiratory tract infection, along with anemia, low blood platelets, and the onset of kidney failure. Two blood transfusions were administered. The most critical moments occurred on February 28 and March 3, when the Pope suffered acute respiratory crises requiring supplemental oxygen and, at one point, noninvasive mechanical ventilation.

Despite the seriousness of his condition, Pope Francis remained alert and cooperative throughout his treatment. His doctors noted his remarkable good spirits, even during the most difficult periods. While he still experiences some vocal difficulties due to lung damage, his doctors are confident his voice will fully return with time.

Before his discharge, Pope Francis will appear in a live video address on Sunday morning to bless the faithful from his hospital suite. This will mark his first public appearance since his admission on February 14th. While the Vatican has yet to confirm any upcoming events, including an audience with King Charles III and participation in Easter services, Pope Francis’ personal physician, Dr. Luigi Carbone, expressed hope that he may be well enough to travel to Turkey in late May.

The Pope will continue his recovery at his Vatican residence, with access to supplemental oxygen and 24-hour medical care as needed. While his full return to normal activity remains uncertain, the overall prognosis is positive, signaling a significant improvement in his condition.

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