Describing Rome’s Gemelli Hospital where he was recently operated upon and spent nine days of post-surgical recovery as “a place of suffering and hope”, Pope Francis sends a letter of gratitude to the entire hospital staff, whose care and attention, he said, were crucial in helping him get better.

In the letter, addressed to Marco Elefanti, President of the “Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli Foundation”, the Pope writes of his wish to express gratitude for how he was cared for after his recent surgery.

The Pope was admitted to the hospital on 7 June and underwent abdominal surgery to repair a hernia and remove scarring from previous operations. He was discharged on 16 June, with his surgeon, Dr Alfieri, describing him as “better than before” his nine-day hospitalization.

It was the third time the pontiff received treatment at the hospital after having undergone surgery for a “symptomatic diverticular stenosis of the colon” in July 2021 and three days of treatment for bronchitis in March 2023.

A place of suffering and hope

“In that place of suffering and hope, I was once again able to enjoy the family-like, fraternal and welcoming atmosphere, which was greatly helpful for my recovery after the operation,” he writes.

The Pope says his “heartfelt appreciation goes to the entire Gemelli Hospital community for its human and spiritual closeness.”

Concluding, he sends his blessings, asks for prayers, and “fraternally” assures Dr Elefanti of his own prayers for him and his family.

A note released by hospital Board Directors says they have shared “the joy and emotion for the words of the Holy Father,“ with the entire staff.

Linda Bordoni – Vatican News