Pope Francis made a brief public appearance to thank 79-year-old Carmela Vittoria Mancuso, who had brought him yellow flowers and visited the hospital daily during his treatment. Mancuso later shared that her heart was “bursting” when the pope acknowledged her.
This marked the second time the public had seen the pope since his hospitalization, following a previously released Vatican photo showing him in prayer at the hospital chapel.
Despite needing oxygen support throughout his stay, Pope Francis appeared to breathe unaided during his address. However, he was spotted using a small oxygen tube while traveling in his car.
A crowd of hundreds gathered outside the hospital, chanting “Francis, Francis, Francis” as they eagerly awaited his appearance, reflecting the deep affection and concern for the pontiff.
