Pope Francis is slowly regaining his strength in the hospital following a more than five-week battle with double pneumonia, according to reports from Channel News Asia and Reuters. Cardinal Victor Manuel Fernandez, head of the Vatican's doctrinal office, indicated that the pontiff must "relearn to speak" due to the effects of prolonged high-flow oxygen therapy.

As Pope Francis approaches his 89th birthday, he has been hospitalized since February 14, during which he has had limited public visibility. The Vatican confirmed a stable condition with gradual improvements in both breathing and mobility. "The pope is doing very well, but high-flow oxygen dries everything out," Fernandez commented during a presentation of a book by the Pope, BBC reported.

The pontiff has utilized oxygen via a small nasal hose, eliminating the need for mechanical ventilation at night. While speculation about a potential retirement has circulated, Fernandez strongly believes Pope Francis intends to remain active in his role. He mentioned, "He believes that with the little time he has left, he wants to dedicate himself entirely to others, not to himself."

Although there are no specific details regarding his potential discharge from the hospital, Fernandez noted uncertainty about his return in time for Easter on April 20. Pope Francis has faced various health challenges throughout his life, including lung issues that make him more susceptible to infections.

This weekend, Pope Francis is expected to make his first public appearance since his hospitalization, addressing the faithful and offering blessings from Rome's Gemelli hospital.