Vatican City: Pope Francis is set to be discharged on Sunday after spending more than a month in the hospital receiving treatment for double pneumonia, according to Sergio Alfieri, the head of the medical team overseeing his care.
"Today we are happy to say that tomorrow he will be at home," Alfieri said, as per a CNN report. He added that the pontiff would leave the hospital in stable clinical condition but would need to continue partial drug therapy observe a period of convalescence and rest for at least two months.
Pope Francis, who has been hospitalized at Gemelli since February 14, is expected to make his first public appearance on Sunday from the hospital's balcony before returning to Casa Santa Marta, his residence since his election in 2013. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni confirmed that the 88-year-old pontiff will offer a blessing and greeting to well-wishers at the end of the Sunday Angelus prayer.
For the past five weeks, Pope Francis has been unable to lead the traditional Sunday prayer and reflection. His hospitalization marks his longest stay at Gemelli since becoming pope 12 years ago. Although he has not been seen in public during this period, the Vatican released an audio message and a photo last weekend showing him praying at the hospital chapel.
News of his discharge follows the Vatican’s recent statement that his condition was improving and that his pneumonia was now under control.
Despite his extended hospitalization, Pope Francis continues to play an active role in church affairs. Last week, he approved a new three-year reform process for the Catholic Church, signaling his commitment to remaining in office. Among the proposed reforms are greater roles for women, including the possibility of ordaining them as deacons, and increased involvement of non-clergy members in governance and decision-making.
With IANS inputs