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Pope Francis, 88, on Wednesday reportedly confided in his aides that he fears he “might not make it this time” as he struggles with double-lung pneumonia, The Times of India reported.
The Pope is currently receiving treatment at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he was admitted on February 14 after battling bronchitis for a week.
Initially hesitant about being hospitalised, the Pontiff agreed to the move after doctors warned that remaining at the Vatican could be life-threatening.
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According to a report by Politico, the Vatican has assured the public that the Pope’s condition is stable, but sources close to him suggest that he is in pain and fully reliant on medical intervention.
A Vatican statement later revealed that Pope Francis is undergoing intensive antibiotic treatment for a polymicrobial respiratory infection, compounded by his history of lung complications.
Before being hospitalised, he made key appointments in preparation for the Church’s future, including extending the term of Giovanni Battista Re as dean of the College of Cardinals, thereby ensuring his influence over the next papal election.
Since his election in 2013, Pope Francis has worked toward creating a more inclusive Church, a stance that has earned both praise and criticism.
Italy’s Prime Minister, Giorgia Meloni, has provided the latest update on Pope Francis, who is currently in hospital.
The Pope has been diagnosed with pneumonia, a serious infection that can inflame and scar the lungs, causing chest pain and making breathing more difficult.
He was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital last Friday with a respiratory infection affecting both lungs.
However, speaking about the Pope, Meloni said the 88-year-old was very alert and responsive.
In a statement on Wednesday, Meloni said she was “very happy to have found him [the Pope] alert and responsive.”
“We joked as always. He hasn’t lost his proverbial sense of humour,” she added.
Meloni also offered the Pope her best wishes for a speedy recovery on behalf of the Italian government and the entire country.
Earlier, the Vatican said medical tests and a chest X-ray revealed “a complex picture.”
The Pope has reportedly told confidants that he may not be able to survive a case of pneumonia.
