Pope Francis Set to Leave Hospital

Great news from Rome, Pope Francis is on the mend and slated to leave the hospital this Sunday, March 23, 2025! After a challenging battle with a respiratory infection and bilateral pneumonia, the Holy Father will return to his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, following a heartfelt Angelus blessing from the window of Gemelli Hospital. Here’s the latest on his recovery and what lies ahead.
A Steady Climb Back to Health
Pope Francis’s discharge comes after weeks of steady improvement, as confirmed by Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the head of Gemelli Hospital’s medical team. Speaking to reporters on Saturday evening, Dr. Alfieri shared the update the world’s been waiting for: “Tomorrow, the Holy Father will be discharged.” Flanked by the Pope’s personal physician, Dr. Sergio Carbone, he detailed how the pontiff’s condition has turned a corner since his admission on February 14.
Back then, Francis faced acute respiratory insufficiency triggered by a polymicrobial infection, which spiraled into bilateral pneumonia. It was a tough fight—complete with two life-threatening episodes requiring non-invasive ventilation and high-flow oxygen. Yet, through it all, he remained alert, cooperative, and, as Dr. Alfieri put it, a “good patient,” faithfully following medical advice.
The Road to Recovery
The pneumonia’s been tamed, but full recovery will take time. Doctors have prescribed at least two months of convalescence at Casa Santa Marta, blending rest with ongoing medical care. While the Pope’s health is “improving steadily,” Dr. Alfieri cautioned that he won’t dive straight back into his packed pre-hospital schedule of meetings and public appearances. A temporary loss of voice—normal after such a condition—is fading, and there’s no diabetes to complicate matters, contrary to some rumors.
Even from his hospital bed, Francis stayed plugged into the world. He kept tabs on Church affairs and global events, chipping away at work when he could. Now, with rehab therapy on the horizon, the hope is he’ll soon resume his normal duties—though at a gentler pace to start.
Sunday’s Farewell from Gemelli
Come Sunday, the Pope will mark his departure with a noon Angelus address from Gemelli’s window, blessing the faithful gathered below before heading home. It’s a moment of joy for the 88-year-old pontiff, who’s reportedly eager to recover in familiar surroundings. As Dr. Alfieri noted, “The best way to recover is to do so at home”—a sentiment echoed by medical consensus.
A Testament to Strength
This hospital stay tested Pope Francis’s resilience, but his spirit shone through. From critical moments to steady progress, his journey’s been a reminder of his dedication—and the power of modern medicine paired with a patient’s will. As he prepares to leave Gemelli, the world watches with relief and anticipation, rooting for his return to full strength.