Pope Francis has reached the two-week mark in his recovery from pneumonia, with doctors indicating that he has passed the most critical phase of the infection but refraining from declaring him entirely out of danger. The Vatican has made alternative plans for Ash Wednesday, with Cardinal Angelo De Donatis set to preside over the ceremony next week as Francis continues his recuperation at Rome's Gemelli Hospital.
The Vatican's update on Friday highlighted a sense of normalcy in Francis' routine, stating that he had a tranquil night and was resting. The 88-year-old pope had breakfast, read newspapers, and received respiratory physiotherapy. Doctors reported an improvement in his clinical condition, with Francis now using a mask for high-flow supplemental oxygen, indicating enhanced respiratory function.
