“Thank you, everyone!” Pope Francis greeted the massive crowd outside Gemelli Hospital in Rome, making his first public appearance after five weeks of hospitalization. At 88, the pontiff smiled warmly and raised his hand in blessing, visibly moved by the sea of well-wishers.
Cries of “Papa Francesco!” and “We love you!” filled the air, but one moment stood out. Spotting a woman in the crowd holding yellow flowers, he pointed playfully and said, “She is good,” drawing laughter and applause—a testament to his enduring charm despite recent health struggles.
Hospitalized on February 14 due to respiratory complications, Pope Francis faced two critical health scares that put his life at risk. After weeks of treatment, doctors discharged him, advising at least two months of rest.
Before returning to the Vatican guesthouse to continue his recovery, he made a brief stop at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. There, he laid flowers before the Mary Salus Populi Romani icon, a deeply personal act of gratitude for what he believes was divine protection during his illness.
Rome’s mayor, Roberto Gualtieri, called his return “a great gift to the city and the world.” Meanwhile, Pope Francis took to Instagram to express his appreciation: “Your prayers and patience have meant so much to me—thank you. I also pray for you.”
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