Pope Francis' Close Call: A Battle with Pneumonia

Pope Francis faced a life-threatening bout with pneumonia, prompting his medical team to consider ending treatment. Despite the crisis, Francis endured, illustrating the pontiff’s resilience amidst the gravest health challenge in his papacy.

In a frightening ordeal, Pope Francis confronted a severe health crisis as he battled pneumonia at Rome's Gemelli hospital. The 88-year-old pontiff's condition was so critical that his medical team considered halting treatment to let him pass peacefully, according to Dr. Sergio Alfieri, the head physician.

Pope Francis experienced a severe breathing crisis on February 28, nearly choking, which presented a significant threat to his life. Dr. Alfieri disclosed that crucial decisions were made about whether to continue aggressive treatment despite the risk of harming other organs.

Diagnosed initially with bronchitis upon admission on February 14, Francis' condition developed into double pneumonia, exacerbated by his medical history of pleurisy and partial lung removal. His 38-day hospital stay marked the most severe health challenge of his 12-year tenure as pope.

(With inputs from agencies.)