Pope Francis Struggles with Pneumonia, Fears for His Future

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Pope Francis, aged 88, is facing a serious health crisis as he battles pneumonia in both lungs. According to The Sun, the pontiff has privately expressed concerns to his aides that he may not survive this illness and is reportedly preparing for his legacy, including considerations for a successor. He was hospitalized last Friday at Rome's Gemelli hospital after a week-long fight against bronchitis that worsened significantly.

Despite an earlier update from the Vatican indicating that he was in stable condition, reports on Wednesday revealed that Pope Francis had a peaceful night but is still facing challenges due to asthmatic bronchitis, which is complicating his pneumonia treatment. Doctors are treating him with cortisone and antibiotics, as his respiratory infection is attributed to a mix of viruses and bacteria.

Following his admission, the Vatican disclosed that the Pope has undergone various tests, including chest X-rays, due to his complicated medical history, which includes the removal of part of his right lung in his youth. His hospitalization underscores the serious nature of his condition, with both lungs affected by the infection.

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