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Pope Francis’ Final Moments: A Closer Look
Reports have emerged detailing the final hours of Pope Francis, revealing a sequence of events leading to his passing as recounted by his personal physician, Dr. Sergio Alfieri. In an article published by Corriere della Sera, it was noted that Dr. Alfieri found the pontiff in a concerning state early Monday, his eyes open but unresponsive.
Following a serious bout with double pneumonia that led to a five-week hospitalization, Pope Francis had returned to the Vatican for a period of recuperation. However, as he rested, his health took a tragic turn. Dr. Alfieri, who had been overseeing the pope’s care since his return on March 23, was summoned by Massimiliano Strappetti, Francis’ health assistant, at around 5:30 a.m. that Monday.
“When I entered, he was responsive but did not respond when called,” Alfieri recounted. The physician cited that Francis’ breathing was normal but was faced with the grim reality that the pope was unresponsive to any stimuli, a clear signal of his deteriorating condition. “In that moment, I understood there was nothing more to be done. He was in a coma,” he stated.
Dr. Alfieri faced a critical decision regarding the pope’s transfer back to Gemelli Hospital, where Francis had previously received treatment for the severe respiratory issues. Citing the pope’s wishes to spend his last moments at home, Alfieri chose to keep him at the Vatican. “The pope wanted to die at home; he always expressed that desire,” he explained.
The pontiff passed away just two hours after suffering a stroke. In a solemn farewell, Cardinal Pietro Parolin recited the rosary in the presence of the papal household staff. Dr. Alfieri reflected on this moment, sharing, “I gave him a caress, as a farewell.”
Vatican News reported that despite his condition, Pope Francis managed a gesture of farewell towards Strappetti, indicating a peaceful finality in his passing. Witnesses noted that he did not appear to be in pain during his last moments.
Arrangements for the pope’s state funeral are underway, scheduled for Saturday. The service is anticipated to attract numerous dignitaries, including U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, along with various official delegations, marking a significant moment in both the Vatican and global events.
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www.yahoo.com