Pope Francis suffering from early stage kidney failure

Pope Francis remains in critical condition in an Italian hospital as he battles early-stage kidney failure and bilateral pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff is currently receiving treatment at the Gemelli University Hospital in Rome and is reportedly alert and attended Mass on Sunday.

According to the Vatican, Pope Francis has been fighting pneumonia and a complex lung infection since being hospitalized on February 14. The Holy See Press Office released a detailed statement on Sunday, revealing that the pope’s condition remains critical but has not experienced any further respiratory crises since Saturday evening.

The statement also mentioned that Pope Francis received two units of concentrated red blood cells, which has helped raise his hemoglobin levels. Additionally, his thrombocytopenia remains stable, but some blood tests show early signs of mild renal insufficiency, which is currently under control. The pope is also receiving oxygen and remains alert and well-oriented.

Despite the positive updates, the prognosis for Pope Francis remains reserved due to the complexity of his clinical situation and the time needed for pharmacological treatments to take effect. However, he participated in Sunday’s Holy Mass from his hospital room on the tenth floor, alongside his caregivers.

In a message posted on X, Pope Francis thanked the international Catholic community for their prayers and support. He expressed gratitude for the messages of affection and drawings from children, saying, “Thank you for your closeness and for the consoling prayers I have received from all over the world.”

Pope Francis also urged believers to continue their apostolate with joy and to be a sign of love that embraces everyone. He encouraged them to transform evil into goodness and build a fraternal world, emphasizing the importance of taking risks for love.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.