Pope Benedict 'nearly blind in one eye'
February 20, 2013 16:35
Pope Benedict XVI is nearly blind in one eye and was advised by his doctor to limit air travel because of his high blood pressure, the website Vatican Insider reported today. The report also said the 85-year-old pontiff often has problems sleeping and has fallen out of bed several times in recent years on foreign trips, making him tired in public appearances.
The report was based on indiscretions from papal aides that Vatican affairs specialist Marco Tosatti said he had promised to keep secret until the end of the pontificate on February 28.
"The picture is of a progressive deterioration of his health and his energy - a context that fully justifies the difficult decision that the pope has taken," Tosatti wrote after the pope said he would step down due to old age.
The report was based on indiscretions from papal aides that Vatican affairs specialist Marco Tosatti said he had promised to keep secret until the end of the pontificate on February 28.
"The picture is of a progressive deterioration of his health and his energy - a context that fully justifies the difficult decision that the pope has taken," Tosatti wrote after the pope said he would step down due to old age.
TOP STORIES
© 2024 Rediff.com - Investor Information - Advertise with us - Disclaimer - Privacy Policy - Feedback - About us - Terms of use - Grievances