Amid speculations over the health of Pope Francis, the Vatican has issued a statement stating that his condition continues to be critical. The pope is not out of danger, the statement from Holy See Press Office read.
The Pope, who has been admitted to the Gemelli Hospital, is experiencing an asthma-like respiratory crisis which requires him to administer a high-flow of oxygen. "Today's blood tests also revealed thrombocytopenia, associated with anaemia, which required the administration of blood transfusions," the statement added.
Though the Pope is fatigued, he spent the day sitting in an armchair. The Vatican also informed that the Pope will not lead the Angelus prayer at noon. Instead, the text will be published at that same time, as was done last Sunday.
Earlier, there were reports that the Pope himself was preparing for the death and had shared concerns that he would not make it this time. US media Politico quoted two unnamed sources that the Pope, sensing his impending death, had moved to appoint sympathetic figures to key posts and complete key initiatives.
The report added that Pope Francis, before being hospitalised on February 6, had moved to extend the term of the Italian cardinal Giovanni Battista Re as dean of the College of Cardinals, sidestepping a scheduled vote on the next dean. This was done to ensure that the process was being carried out according to his wishes, the Politico reported.
There were also unconfirmed reports that Pope Francis might resign if he cannot maintain his direct contact with people. He has already written a resignation letter soon after being elected pontiff, to be used in case of health incapacities.
His close aides and personal physician had opened up about how the Pope cares a lot about the Church which he clearly puts first.
Becoming the Pope late in his life at 76, Francis had openly told the media how he would not hold the position for long due to his health complications. A year after he assumed the role, the Pope told reporters that he "thought he would be pope for two or three years, then off to the house of the Father."