In the days following the Vatican's announcement on February 6 that Pope Francis was suffering from bronchitis and would limit his activities, the pope conducted multiple private audiences daily with various groups, including nuns, pilgrims, and foundation leaders.
On February 9, he led an outdoor Mass in St. Peter’s Square, during which strong winds blew his zucchetto off. He was unable to complete his homily, stating, “I have trouble breathing,” before passing it to an aide.
By February 12, during his weekly audience, the pope had an aide read his speech but still engaged with dozens of prelates, shaking hands and taking photos with various groups including Spanish faithful and nuns from Mother Teresa’s order.
Two days later, he was hospitalized with a complex medical condition that had progressed to pneumonia in both lungs. Many close to the pope expressed that his intense work ethic contributed to his hospitalization, highlighting his sense of duty and mission.
At 88 years old, the pope’s demanding schedule has intensified with the commencement of the 2025 Jubilee, a significant year of faith and penance occurring every 25 years. Observers note that this workload reflects his personality and vision of the papacy.
Dr. Luigi Carbone, the pope’s personal physician, indicated that Francis prioritizes the Church, stating, “It’s clear he put the Church first.” Dr. Sergio Alfieri, another physician, remarked on the pope’s generosity and tendency to overwork himself.
Francis ascended to the papacy at 76 and has maintained a rigorous schedule, believing that his time in the role may be limited. A year after becoming pope, he predicted he would serve for only two or three years.
Austen Ivereigh, a Catholic commentator, noted that Francis views constant accessibility as essential to his papal duties. He emphasized that the pope is primarily focused on fulfilling his ministry rather than extending his life.
Francis’ full agenda extends into afternoons, reflecting his belief that he will rest in the next world. His deep sense of duty was shaped by his upbringing in religious institutions that emphasized discipline and commitment.
Dr. Castro characterized the pope as obstinate, sharing that Francis prefers to make his own decisions regarding his health and workload. Observers noted that he often resists taking necessary breaks despite ongoing health issues.
Biographer Elisabetta Piqué highlighted that the pope has not taken a vacation since 1975, unlike his predecessors. This may be compounded by the encouragement of those around him, some of whom reportedly enable his relentless schedule.
Amid this, public health experts suggest the pope should take care, especially given his potential exposure to illnesses from meeting large numbers of people. Massimo Andreoni, a professor of infectious diseases, advised the pope to be more cautious about his health.
Recent hospital visits revealed that Francis himself acknowledged the need to slow down, reportedly telling Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni that doctors advised him to take time off for his health.
At a press briefing, the pope's doctors indicated they would keep him hospitalized until he receives the necessary treatment, cautious about returning him to his residence where he might resume work too quickly.