Cardinal Francis George Released From Hospital, Feeling “Much Better”

Cardinal Francis George was released from Loyola University Medical Center Friday, and has returned home, his spokesperson said.

“The causes that required his admission, dehydration and pain management, have been successfully addressed and he is feeling much better,” said Susan Burritt, a spokesperson for the archdiocese.

“The Cardinal is deeply grateful to the doctors, nurses, and staff of Loyola University Hospital for the excellent care he received," she added. "He is also very thankful to all those who prayed for him in a special way during his hospital stay, and asks for their continuing prayers, even as he promises his in return.”

Cardinal Francis George was readmitted to Loyola University Medical Center Saturday after being released earlier this month.

Doctors at the hospital were treating the cardinal for hydration issues and pain management.

George is not able to walk at the moment and is confined to a wheelchair, according to sources close to the cardinal. His difficulty walking also stems from the polio that he contracted when he was 13 years old and that left his legs permanently damaged.

The 78-year-old cardinal had a brief stay at the Loyola hospital in early March. He was diagnosed with cancer in his liver and a kidney in August 2012, which doctors described as "very painful."

Until December, George was taking part in a clinical trial of a new drug that aimed to improve his immune system in his ongoing battle with cancer.

When his health allows it, George continues to work on a book he has been writing. The topic of the book has not been revealed, but many believe the content is philosophical rather than personal, as the cardinal has a doctorate degree in philosophy.

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