The Head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, has been hospitalized after he complained about having difficulty in breathing. Though all speculations of Covid-19 have been ruled out, the head was reportedly diagnosed with a respiratory infection. Soon after the news of the Pope’s hospitalization broke out, millions of followers sent messages and offered their prayers. One among these millions was Arnold Schwarzenegger‘s ex-wife, Maria Shriver.

The former first lady of California learned about Pope Francis from a news outlet on Twitter. Soon after, Shriver shared a heartwarming message for the Pope.

Maria Shriver hopes for the Pope’s speedy recovery

Earlier today, NBC News reported that Pope Francis has been rushed to the hospital. Their tweet read, “JUST IN: Pope Francis has been admitted to a Rome hospital after complaining of breathing difficulties, the Vatican says.” The news spread like wildfire and people prayed for his good health. In response to the tweet, Shriver wrote, “Sending love to Pope Francis. We need you to get better soon ❤.”

In his official statement, the spokesperson of the Vatican revealed that Pope Francis was touched by the messages. Furthermore, he revealed, “In recent days Pope Francis has complained of some breathing difficulties.” Diagnosed with a respiratory infection, the 86-year-old is now required to stay in the hospital for a few days. This is done so that “appropriate hospital medical treatment” can be administered to him.

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Pope Francis has served as the head of the Catholic Church for nearly a decade now. However, his health has been a major cause of concern in the recent year.

Health issues Pope Francis battled in recent years

In 2021, Pope Francis was admitted to a hospital for ten days in July. During this time, he underwent colon surgery to treat a kind of diverticulitis. The 6-hour surgery treated an inflammation of pockets that had developed in the lining of his intestine. Admittedly, he felt the effects of the treatment even after a year. In 2022, Francis complained about a severe ache in his knees.

Sometimes, he had to cancel his activities because of chronic pain. In recent times, he has been depending on a wheelchair to carry out his duties. His health hindered him from successfully carrying out his responsibilities. Francis once claimed that he’ll step down from his post if his health restricts him from doing his job.

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With his recent hospitalization, speculations about whether he’ll continue with his post are making rounds. While that is a concern for later, at the moment, people are hoping for the Argentine pontiff’s speedy recovery.