The doctor who led the medical team attending to Pope Francis during his final days has shared the somber details of the pontiff’s passing and his last words, leaving many deeply moved.
According to the physician, he received a call at 5:30 am on Monday and arrived at the Vatican just 20 minutes later to find the pope unresponsive.
The late head of the Catholic Church passed away on Easter Monday following a cerebral stroke and heart failure. In Nigeria, a seminarian named Chime Augustine expressed his grief over the news.
Speaking to Corriere della Sera, Dr. Sergio Alfieri, who treated Pope Francis during his hospital stay for double pneumonia, described the final moments. Upon arriving at the pope’s residence, Alfieri found the pontiff in a coma with his eyes open and made a heartbreaking assessment.
In his words:
“I entered his rooms and he (Pope Francis) had his eyes open. I ascertained that there were no respiratory problems. And then I tried to call his name, but he did not respond to me. He didn’t respond to stimuli, not even painful ones. In that moment, I knew there was nothing more to do. He was in a coma.”
In a separate conversation with La Repubblica, Dr. Alfieri recalled his final encounter with the pope on Saturday before his death. He said the pontiff had expressed a regret that touched many hearts.
“He regretted he could not wash the feet of the prisoners. This time I couldn’t do it – was the last thing he said to me.”
This tradition, performed by popes during Holy Week, had evidently weighed heavily on Pope Francis’ mind, as he was unable to fulfill it during his final Easter.
Seminarian Chime Augustine, reacting to the news from Owerri, said:
“The news struck me with profound sorrow and reverence. It felt like the Church had lost not just a shepherd, but a spiritual father whose voice guided millions across continents. In prayerful silence, I turned to the Psalms, especially Psalm 116:15: ‘Precious in the eyes of the Lord is the death of His faithful ones.'”
Across social media, tributes and reactions poured in.
Brian Dearman wrote:
“His health deteriorated quite a lot recently when you think of it? He must of been well pumped with steroids, poor old bu.gger – RIP Pope Francis.”
Rhonda Liptak remarked:
“We all need to remember they do not embalm or do autopsy on the pope… his wishes were met with what he wanted and them taking him to the balcony on Easter is what he wanted to do. He is/was the pope, he was raised and obligated his faith to the fullest… He was very humble and he cared for all people. He put the people before himself.”
Cruise Wilson Matandika questioned:
“Mmmmm that doctor is lying anyone who saw the guy during his last days will tell you a different story.”
Joan Blanch-Nicholson said:
“I can’t believe he was brought to the balcony when they decided to do it. Poor man looked really ill, but I think a lot of people were grateful for that last glimpse. I’m not Catholic, but couldn’t help but feel sorry for him.”
Fay-Fari Far expressed sympathy:
“My heartfelt condolences to the Catholic community and faith on their loss. May you all find comfort and strength in each other during this difficult time. Sending love and support to everyone affected.”
Maumé Izlum II shared a cryptic thought:
“He now goes to the archive and waits like everyone else…. those who understand this know what I’m talking about.”
Pope Francis’ Enduring Legacy
Throughout his 12-year papacy, Pope Francis championed the cause of the poor and marginalized, giving them a voice within the Church and global community. He spoke out against policies that further impoverished people and consistently advocated for refugees and migrants.
Among his diplomatic achievements was the notable restoration of diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba in 2016, a move that showcased his role as a bridge-builder in global politics.
