Among the final words of the late Pope Francis was a “thank you” to his personal healthcare assistant for encouraging him to take one last ride in the popemobile on Sunday. Source: Vatican News.
This expression of gratitude was among Pope Francis’s last words to nurse Massimiliano Strappetti, who watched over him tirelessly throughout his illness.
Mr Strappetti stayed by the Pope’s side during all 38 days of his hospitalisation at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital and kept watch round-the-clock during his recovery at the Casa Santa Marta. He was with the Pope on Easter Sunday, during the Urbi et Orbi blessing.
The day before, they had gone together to St Peter’s Basilica to review the “route” he would take the following day when he was to appear on the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica.
The late Pope wanted to offer one last, meaningful surprise to the 50,000 faithful with a ride in the popemobile on Sunday after the blessing on the balcony of St Peter’s Basilica façade.
However, Pope Francis did hesitate and asked Mr Strappetti, “Do you think I can manage it?”
Once in St Peter’s Square, he embraced the crowd, especially the children since this was his first ride after being discharged from Gemelli hospital.
Tired but content, the Pope afterwards thanked Mr Strappetti, saying, “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square.”
These heartfelt words reveal the Argentine Pope’s deep desire to be among the people of God and enjoy the human connection he made a hallmark of his papacy.
The Pope then rested on Sunday afternoon and had a quiet dinner.
At about 5.30am local time, the first signs of the sudden illness appeared, prompting an immediate response from his carers. About an hour later, after making a gesture of farewell with his hand to Mr Strappetti, the Pope fell into a coma.
According to those who were with him in his final moments, he did not suffer. It all happened quickly.
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Pope Francis’ final hours and gratitude for returning to the Square (By Salvatore Cernuzio, Vatican News)
