Pope Francis’s Lung Inflammation

By Martina Brajanovska, Copy Editor • December 17, 2023

Pope Francis is under serious health watch. The pope canceled a trip in November due to the flu. He was admitted to the Rome hospital, where he received a CT scan that revealed he had lung inflammation. Just earlier this year, in April, the pope was hospitalized with pneumonia. Later, in June, he spent another nine days hospitalized as he was being treated for a hernia.

After just a few days, his lung inflammation and breathing difficulties continue and show no signs of improvement. Healthcare professionals say that the pope is doing alright and is continuing to take his antibiotic treatment.

He decided that for the following few days, it would be best to rest and take a break from his regular duties in order to regain his strength. He will continue to perform his “easier” tasks as his health allows him to.

The pope even skipped his weekly Sunday appearance but still gave his blessing televised live from the Vatican Hotel. At his weekly meeting with citizens in Vatican City on November 29, 2023, people claimed that the pope sounded “wheezy” and talked only a limited amount. He had assistance for his speech from an aide at his side. Viewers say that when the pope raised one of his arms, it was visible to see where his IV tubes were attached to assist him. He later canceled his trip to Dubai, which he initially intended on attending to speak about the climate change crisis.

Pope Francis’s illness, however, has not stopped him from speaking out and advocating for peace in the Gaza Strip. He also touched on hopes for peace in Ukraine as they are also experiencing hardship at this time.

An update has been given on the pope in the past few days, and healthcare professionals are saying that the pope is in “good and stable” condition. Word has spread that respiratory issues are slowly improving. His spokesperson, Matteo Bruni, told reporters that Pope Francis has follow-up appointments scheduled to ensure that his health is fully recovered.

The pope will continue his battle with his health as he gradually improves every day. However, this does not stop him from fulfilling his duties around the world to the best of his ability.

About the Contributors

Martina Brajanovska, Copy Editor

Hey guys! I’m Martina Brajanovska, and I’m finally a senior! It’s been a long journey getting here, but I’m very excited that we made it. The past four years have all blended into one giant reel of memories that I have made along the way; many that I will cherish for the rest of my life. I’ve made and lost friends along the way, gained skills and cried tears (many tears), but I would not take back a single second. As this final year begins, my anticipation grows and stress is settling in. Writing for The Ubiquity has given me the opportunity to freely express my thoughts on topics that intrigue me. I am sad to see my time as a staff writer and copy editor come to an end this year, but excited to begin a new chapter in my life.

Judy Lee, Staff Writer

Hello everyone! I’m Judy, a senior at Quartz Hill. I joined journalism during eleventh grade and decided to join again because I enjoyed it last year. I’ve been a part of the Quartz Hill Cheer team for four years. I am so excited and not so patiently waiting for all the events and games. One fact about me: I have played the violin for over eight years. I was the concertmaster of the West Coast Classical Orchestra last year. I am aiming for that position again this year when I audition soon. Playing as first chair last year was fantastic, so I hope to experience it again! The first few months of senior year will be busy because of college applications and other things, but I hope it’s fun and worthwhile. I’m glad to be returning to journalism and writing for The Ubiquity!