Some of Pope Francis’ last words were a heartfelt expression of thanks to his personal health care assistant, the Vatican revealed Tuesday.
The 88-year-old pontiff, who died Monday from a stroke and subsequent heart failure, grew emotional while expressing his gratitude to Massimiliano Strappetti, a nurse and his caregiver, for encouraging him to take one final ride in the popemobile on Easter shortly before his death.
“Do you think I can manage it?” the ailing pope asked Strappetti soon after his discharge from Gemelli Hospital in Rome.
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The pope wanted to surprise the more than 50,000 faithful who were gathered for his Easter Sunday “Urbi et Orbi” blessing, which he gave from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
He was fearful that his failing health wouldn’t allow it.
His aide apparently encouraged him to take the ride in St. Peter’s Square — during which he felt a warm welcome from the massive crowd — and Francis told Strappetti, “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square.”
It would be the final time his adoring followers would see him alive.
Francis had a quiet dinner after resting Sunday afternoon, then quickly grew ill when he awoke around 5:30 a.m. Monday, prompting a rapid response from his medical team.
About an hour later, the pope fell into a coma after making a final “gesture of farewell” with his hand to Strappetti, the Vatican reported, noting that he succumbed soon afterward and did not suffer.