Pope Francis discharged from hospital, to reduce public appearances post-surgery.
Pope Francis Returns Home After Hernia Surgery
Pope Francis’s weeklong hospital stay after a successful hernia surgery ended on Friday, with the Vatican announcing his return home and gradual resumption of public appearances.
The 86-year-old pontiff underwent the surgery on June 7 and has been recovering at Gemelli Hospital in Rome since then.
Positive Outlook on Health
“I’m still alive,” the pope jokingly told reporters as he left the hospital in a wheelchair.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the pope’s surgeon, expressed optimism about his patient’s well-being, stating, “The pope is well. He’s better than before.”
Gradual Return to Normal Activities
Although the pope has returned home, he will not immediately resume his regular schedule. His scheduled audience on June 21 has been canceled to allow for his post-surgical recovery. However, Francis will make a brief midday appearance on Sunday to lead the Angelus.
Additionally, the pope is set to meet with Brazilian President Luiz Lula da Silva on Wednesday.
Continued Commitment Despite Health Challenges
Despite his declining health, Pope Francis remains committed to his duties and travel plans. In August, he will travel to Lisbon, Portugal, for the triennial celebration of World Youth Day. Furthermore, he is scheduled to visit Mongolia from August 31 to September 4.
It is evident that the pontiff’s health has deteriorated in recent years, making him the oldest-reigning pope since Pope Leo XIII, who passed away in 1903 at the age of 93.
In late March, the pope was admitted to Gemelli Hospital due to a lung infection following an audience in St. Peter’s Square. He stayed at the hospital for four days.
In addition to the hernia surgery, Francis underwent a procedure in 2021 to treat diverticulitis, a condition that involved the removal of a portion of his colon. He has also relied on a wheelchair or cane due to ligament damage in his knee.
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