Pope shows ‘slight improvement’; he thanks ‘entire People of God’

This evening’s report on the Holy Father’s health, while speaking of a “slight improvement,” continues to insist on a “cautious prognosis.”

Now the longest of the Pope’s hospitalizations, this is his 11th day at the Gemelli.

Vatican sources added to the official statement that the Pope is eating normally, including solid food, and is able to move around.

Here is the Vatican evening report, released just a couple hours before the Diocese of Rome gathers with the Pope’s secretary of state for a rosary in St. Peter’s Square:

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The Holy Father’s clinical condition, despite its severity, has shown a slight improvement.

No episodes of asthma-like respiratory distress occurred today, and some laboratory tests have shown improvement. The monitoring of his mild kidney insufficiency has not raised any concerns. Oxygen therapy continues, although with slightly reduced flow and oxygen levels.

Given the complexity of the clinical picture, the doctors are prudently maintaining their cautious prognosis.

In the morning, the Pope received the Eucharist, while in the afternoon, he resumed his work.

In the evening, he called the parish priest of Gaza to express his paternal closeness.

Pope Francis thanks the entire People of God, who in these days have gathered to pray for his health.

Follow the updates on the Pope’s health here.