Pope Francis Shows Slight Improvement During Month-Long Hospitalization

The Vatican reports the 88-year-old pontiff can briefly breathe without oxygen support as he continues limited papal duties from his hospital room.

Pope Francis, hospitalized since February 14 for double pneumonia, has shown slight improvements, including moments of breathing without oxygen support.
The Vatican released the first photo of the pope since his hospitalization, showing him in a wheelchair in a chapel without visible oxygen assistance.
Doctors are reducing his reliance on high-flow oxygen and nighttime mechanical ventilation as part of his recovery process.
The pope continues to perform limited papal responsibilities, including issuing messages and approving Church initiatives, while undergoing respiratory and physiotherapy.
Global prayers and support have poured in, with groups, including children, gathering outside the hospital to show solidarity during his recovery.