Pope Francis, who is completing his treatment at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli hospital, made his first public appearance on Sunday in five weeks since being hospitalised.
The 88-year-old pontiff was discharged after a severe case of bilateral pneumonia. Doctors said he will need at least two months of rest at the Vatican.
The pontiff appeared on the balcony above the clinic’s main entrance and blessed hundreds of faithful gathered outside the building. Those who came to see Francis shouted his name and chanted “Long live the pope!”
Shortly after he left the balcony after a brief greeting, the crowd moved towards the hospital entrance to see the pope before he left. Later, Francis headed to meet with the cardinal.
In late February, the media reported that Pope Francis’ health had improved slightly. On February 23, the Vatican reported the “critical condition” of the Pope and added the pontiff was suffering from “persistent asthma-like respiratory crisis.” Then the press service clarified that he was diagnosed with slight renal failure. Doctors admitted Pope Francis to hospital on February 14 to examine him and continue treatment for bronchitis.
The pope, who had part of a slight removed when he was young, has suffered health problems in recent months, including prolonged bouts of bronchitis.
