Pope Francis, 88, is battling worsening health as he remains hospitalized in Rome's Gemelli Hospital with double pneumonia. The Vatican confirmed that the pontiff has been suffering from a severe respiratory infection, now complicated by a polymicrobial condition requiring advanced corticosteroid and antibiotic therapy. Despite his fragile state, Pope Francis remains in "good spirits," though sources reveal he privately expressed fears that “he won’t make it this time.”

With concerns over his mortality growing, the Pope has moved swiftly to cement his legacy. He recently appointed Sister Raffaella Petrini as the Vatican's first female governor, set to take office on March 1. Additionally, he extended Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re's term as dean of the College of Cardinals—an influential figure in the pre-conclave lobbying process.

The Vatican has assured that Pope Francis will stay hospitalized for as long as necessary. However, insiders suggest the Pope resisted hospitalization initially and was warned of fatal consequences if he remained in his Vatican residence. As the succession battle looms, the Vatican remains on edge, preparing for what could be a historic transition of power.