Pope Francis’s final moments were recounted by his doctor, Professor Sergio Alfieri, who revealed that the pontiff remained unresponsive yet breathes with oxygen shortly after falling ill on a Monday morning. Alfieri, alerted around 5:30 am, arrived just 20 minutes later to find Francis awake but not responding to stimuli. The doctor concluded that the pope was in a coma and deemed further hospital transfer too risky due to previous health issues, including a severe respiratory infection that had resulted in multiple hospitalizations.
Two hours after his initial health decline, Pope Francis passed away peacefully at home, having suffered a stroke. Alfieri reassured that he “died without suffering” and was surrounded by his household staff and Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who said the rosary over his body.
Reflecting on the pope’s health, Alfieri noted that Francis had struggled with respiratory problems and was aware he would never fully regain his previous condition, as the infection had left lasting damage to his lungs. Despite this, the pope displayed a strong spirit, participating in physical therapy and striving to return to work, a process Alfieri supported, stating it was part of his recovery.
The surgeon also recalled the late pope’s fondness for indulging in midnight snacks, which contributed to some weight gain, a point of humour between them. Alfieri remarked that Francis had a zest for life, wanting to undertake certain responsibilities before his passing, which included an Easter appearance that attracted a crowd of 50,000, where he was delighted to bless children.
In the days leading up to his death, Francis exhibited a sense of urgency to accomplish tasks and reaffirmed his role as pope right until the end. His determination to maintain an active presence demonstrated his unwavering commitment to his duties as spiritual leader. Alfieri summarised this sentiment, stating that “we knew he wanted to be pope until the last instant, and he didn’t disappoint us.”