Pope Francis had peaceful night in hospital, says Vatican source
The Hindu
Pope Francis had peaceful night in hospital, could be discharged in time for Palm Sunday celebrations on April 2 says Vatican source
Pope Francis spent a peaceful night in hospital, a Vatican source said on March 30, 2023, a day after the 86-year-old pontiff was hospitalised with a respiratory infection.
The source said the Vatican was expected to give an update on the Pope's condition in the "late morning".
On Wednesday, the Vatican had said that Francis would have to stay for "a few days" at Rome's Gemelli hospital for "appropriate" medical treatment.
According to Italian news agency ANSA, nursing staff "are very optimistic" that, barring surprises, the Pope could be discharged in time for Palm Sunday celebrations on April 2.
ANSA, quoting unnamed hospital sources, also said doctors had "for now" ruled out heart problems and pneumonia for Pope Francis.
Palm Sunday marks the start of a hectic week of ceremonies leading to Easter Sunday on April 9, the holiest day in the Christian calendar, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Pope Francis' health has attracted increased scrutiny in the last two years, during which time he has undergone colon surgery and begun using a wheelchair or a walking stick due to chronic knee pain.