· 2 min read
illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on The Associated Press or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: Pope Francis’ doctors considered halting treatment during a severe breathing crisis on 28 February, fearing he might not survive the night
• Instead, they opted for aggressive interventions that carried risks to his organs
• The pontiff was discharged on 23 March after 38 days of hospitalisation for bronchitis and bilateral pneumonia
🔭 The context: At age 88, Pope Francis has faced growing health challenges, with this marking his longest hospital stay
• The crisis involved inhalation of vomit during a bronchospasm and was followed by further complications days later
• His team proceeded with intensive treatment, encouraged by the pope’s assistant and his own wishes
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: As a global religious leader and outspoken advocate for climate action, Pope Francis’ health bears significant implications
• His encyclicals, particularly Laudato Si’, have galvanised environmental discourse across faith and policy spheres
• Uncertainty about his health could affect momentum in global moral leadership on climate and social justice
⏭️ What's next: Francis is under strict medical orders to rest for two months, casting doubt on his participation in Holy Week and a possible meeting with King Charles III
• Vatican planning will depend on his recovery progress
• Any future health crises may accelerate conversations about papal succession
💬 One quote: “We needed to choose whether to stop and let him go, or to push it and attempt… In the end, that is the path we chose.” — Dr. Sergio Alfieri, Gemelli Polyclinic
📈 One stat: Pope Francis spent 38 days in hospital for treatment — his longest hospitalisation to date.
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