For the first time since his admission to the hospital approximately three weeks ago, Pope Francis is demonstrating a positive reaction to medical care, a Vatican insider has disclosed, as reported by CNN.
This comes after an announcement from the Vatican press office on Saturday that noted “a good response to therapy” and a “gradual, slight improvement” following his bouts of severe respiratory distress on Monday.
The Vatican insider explained that this progress stemmed from the “gas exchange” within the lungs and the blood’s oxygenation levels.
Nonetheless, the possibility persists of another respiratory emergency, and the outlook remains cautious, the insider stressed.
The pope persists in switching between high flow oxygen treatment during daylight hours and non-invasive ventilation overnight, according to the Vatican press office.
On Saturday morning, Pope Francis offered prayers within a chapel. Later that day, he took time to rest and partake in work-related tasks, the office reported, mentioning that Sunday’s Angelus prayer will once more be distributed in written format.
Beginning on Monday, the pope will take part in the customary “spiritual exercises” for Lent while still at the hospital, the Vatican insider informed CNN.
Since the event on Monday, the pope has stayed in a stable state and undergone respiratory and motor physiotherapy sessions.
He shared a pre-recorded audio message on Thursday expressing gratitude to his well-wishers for their support.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli