Pope Faces Difficulty Climbing Steps Amid Respiratory and Mobility Issues
On Wednesday, Pope Francis faced continued health challenges as he struggled with respiratory and mobility issues during his weekly general audience held in St. Peter’s Square. The 87-year-old pontiff, who has been dealing with lingering health problems, delegated the reading of his catechism lesson to an aide, a practice observed over the past several days.
The Pope’s recent health concerns began last Wednesday when he underwent unspecified diagnostic tests at the hospital, and the results have not been disclosed. Throughout this winter, Francis has been grappling with a series of health issues, including what he and the Vatican have described as a cold, bouts of bronchitis, and the flu.
Late in the previous year, a CAT scan ruled out pneumonia, although the Pope had to cancel a planned trip to the Gulf due to a severe about of acute, infectious bronchitis. Complicating matters, a knee fracture and inflammation of ligaments dating back to 2022 led him to use a wheelchair, though he typically relied on a cane or walker with the assistance of aides to stand.
During Wednesday’s audience, it became evident that Francis struggled to ascend the steps to board his popemobile, even with handrails for support. A wheelchair was quickly brought in, and the Pope, unable to climb the steps, greeted the crowd seated before being wheeled out of the piazza.
Pope Francis, originally from Argentina, faced health challenges earlier in life when he had part of one lung removed due to a respiratory infection as a young man. Even when not unwell, he often speaks in a whisper. In 2021, he underwent a procedure to remove a portion of his colon, followed by surgery last year to address an abdominal hernia and remove intestinal scar tissue.
The Pope’s recent struggles with respiratory and mobility issues highlight ongoing concerns about his health, and the decision to delegate public speaking and navigate through a wheelchair underscores the gravity of the situation. The Vatican and the faithful continue to monitor Pope Francis’s health, hoping for his recovery and well-being.
