Pope Francis, 88, has reportedly told close aides he fears he “might not make it this time” as he battles double-lung pneumonia at Rome’s Gemelli hospital. Despite Vatican assurances that his condition is stable, sources claim the Pontiff is in intense pain and is now fully reliant on medical intervention, according to a report by Politico.
The Pope was admitted on February 14 after suffering from bronchitis for a week. Initially reluctant, he agreed to hospitalization after doctors warned he was at risk of death if he remained at the Vatican. A Vatican statement later confirmed he is undergoing extensive antibiotic treatment for a polymicrobial respiratory infection, compounded by his history of lung complications.
Reports suggest Francis is now “tying up loose ends,” making key appointments to shape the Church’s future. Before his hospitalization, he controversially extended the term of Giovanni Battista Re as dean of the College of Cardinals, ensuring influence over the next papal election.
Since his election in 2013, Francis has pushed for a more inclusive Church, a stance that has drawn both praise and criticism. His tenure has also seen efforts to combat clerical abuse, with mixed results.
