The Vatican press office says the pontiff is still receiving high-flow oxygen therapy. However, Pope Francis is out of the emergency situation. The Pope returned to X to thank everyone for their well wishes.
Blood tests have confirmed that Pope Francis’ thrombocytopenia, caused by a low platelet count, remains stable. However, they also detected early, mild signs of kidney failure, which are currently under control, according to a medical bulletin.
The Vatican Press Office stated that the pontiff continues to receive high-flow oxygen therapy. He is alert and well-oriented, though his prognosis remains reserved.
On Sunday morning, Pope Francis took part in a Mass alongside his caregivers in a special area on the tenth floor of Rome’s Agostino Gemelli Hospital. After a week away from social media, he returned to his X account (@Pontifex), posting messages in nine languages.
Meanwhile, large crowds of well-wishers gathered outside the hospital, leaving scarves, balloons, rosaries, and candles. Many prayed for his recovery on Sunday, as he missed his second consecutive Angelus prayer. A senior prelate led a morning Mass for deacons as part of celebrations for the Holy Jubilee Year in his place.
“I have recently received many messages of affection, and I have been particularly struck by the letters and drawings from children,” the pope wrote on X. “Thank you for your closeness and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world!”
Pontiff’s Italian cousin ‘very concerned’
Carla Rabezzana, the 93-year-old cousin of Pope Francis, expressed her concern for his health. Speaking from Portacomaro, his family’s hometown in Piedmont, she said, “We are all extremely worried. We hope he will feel better soon and get over this bad moment. I am very agitated.”
She added that locals were praying for him, along with millions worldwide. “We are all praying for him to get out of hospital,” she said, noting that the local church was full of worshippers.
