Pope Francis struggled with grave respiratory illness which worsened over the years. Photos Courtesy: AFP
The late Pope Francis was born in Argentina and named Jorge Mario Bergoglio at the time of his birth. He assumed the role of the head of the Roman Catholic church on March 13 in 2013 but his challenges with health started in his youth
When he was young, he faced a major health challenge in the form of a severe respiratory infection because of which a portion of his lung was removed in a surgery
His respiratory illness grew with age impacting his day-to-day life, and even committments to his service. Most recently even forcing him to cancel a planned visit to the UAE in 2023
As this illness worsened, doctor diagnosed him with bilateral pneumonia on February 18 in 2025 and he was hospitalised
The Pope eventually returned to his Vatican residence at the Casa Santa Marta to continue his recovery after 38 days in the hospital
On April 20 in 2025, he made his last public appearance blessing thousands on the occasion of Easter, giving many hope of his recovery. Unfortunately, he passed away on Easter Monday, leaving millions mourning
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