Benedict Blind in One Eye: Report

Looking thinner than ever: journalist
By Matt Cantor,  Newser Staff
Posted Feb 18, 2013 6:50 AM CST
Benedict Blind in One Eye: Report
Pope Benedict XVI acknowledges a cheering crowd during his second-to-last Angelus prayer from the window of his apartments at the Vatican, Feb. 17, 2013.   (AP Photo/Domenico Stinellis)

Pope Benedict cited deteriorating strength in explaining his exit, and now specifics are becoming clear via the Los Angeles Times. The pontiff has apparently gone blind in one eye, says Peter Seewald, a German journalist and frequent Benedict interviewer. When Seewald saw the pope 10 weeks ago, his hearing had weakened and "his body had become so thin that the tailors had difficulty in keeping up with newly fitted clothes," the journalist said. "I'd never seen him so exhausted-looking, so worn down." Benedict reportedly told Seewald that "the strength is ebbing. I think what I've done is enough." Would he retire? "That depends on how much my physical strength will force me to that." (More Pope Benedict XVI stories.)

Get the news faster.
Tap to install our app.
X
Install the Newser News app
in two easy steps:
1. Tap in your navigation bar.
2. Tap to Add to Home Screen.

X