Pope Francis is scheduled to be discharged from the hospital on Sunday, a significant milestone after enduring double pneumonia. Since his admission on February 14, the Pope has gradually regained strength, though he will require ongoing rest and rehabilitation to fully recuperate. While he has been seen publicly only once since his hospitalization, a recent audio message expressed his gratitude to prayers offered on his behalf, eliciting responses of support from the Catholic community.

Cardinal Victor Fernandez, an official at the Vatican, indicated that although Pope Francis is improving, he may experience challenges with speech due to the effects of high-flow oxygen use. Notably, the pontiff has ceased mechanical ventilation use at night and is now reliant on a more manageable oxygen supply. Speculation surrounding his potential resignation has been dismissed by Cardinal Fernandez, who affirmed the Pope's continued commitment to his role as leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

Pope Francis has navigated various health challenges throughout his life, including the removal of part of a lung in his youth, which has contributed to his vulnerability to infections. As he approaches nearly twelve years as the head of the Catholic Church, the global community awaits news of his continued recovery and return to public life, especially as Easter approaches on April 20.