Pope Francis’ final words to his nurse reveal the true heart of his legacy
In a quiet moment of gratitude, Pope Francis thanked the man who stood by him during his most fragile times.
Pope Francis’ final words, spoken to his longtime nurse Massimiliano Strappetti, captured the humility and love that defined his life. His farewell wasn’t to a leader or dignitary, but to the caregiver who stayed by his side during his greatest battles.
In the last hours of his life, Pope Francis asked for one more journey through St. Peter’s Square. It wasn’t a grand plan—it came from a simple question he asked his nurse: “Do you think I can manage it?”
Massimiliano Strappetti, his personal healthcare assistant, gave him the confidence to go. And so, just after delivering his Urbi et Orbi blessing on Easter Sunday, the Pope rode through the crowd, smiling, waving, and blessing children one last time.
Later that evening, after a quiet meal and some rest, Francis spoke softly to Strappetti: “Thank you for bringing me back to the Square.” These were the Pope’s final words before he slipped into a coma at dawn and passed away peacefully at the age of 88.
Who is Massimiliano Strappetti?
At 54 years old, Massimiliano Strappetti was no stranger to high pressure. A seasoned nurse from Rome’s Gemelli Polyclinic, he had cared for three popes: John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis.
In 2022, Francis chose him as his personal healthcare assistant, a role built on deep trust and quiet devotion. Friends and colleagues describe Strappetti as a humble figure who never sought fame. His social media reveals a man dedicated to family, his faith, and cheering for his favorite soccer team, Lazio.
Though Strappetti played a crucial role during some of Francis’ most serious health battles—including a long fight with double pneumonia earlier this year—he always remained in the background, focused only on care.
Pope Francis’ final day: a glimpse into his spirit
Even after recovering from pneumonia and a lengthy hospital stay, Francis refused to slow down. Against doctors’ advice, he returned to work, determined to serve until the very end.
On his last day, he fulfilled one final wish: to see his people, to feel their love, and to give them a blessing. His passing was as he had lived—peaceful, humble, and centered around others rather than himself.
No dramatic gestures. No requests for praise. Just a simple act of gratitude toward a man who had helped him quietly behind the scenes.
Pope Francis’ final words weren’t addressed to a politician, a cardinal, or a celebrity. They were spoken to the nurse who had held his hand through moments of fear, illness, and recovery.
In choosing to say “thank you” as his final message, Pope Francis left the world with a lasting reminder: greatness is not found in power or prestige, but in kindness, humility, and heartfelt connection.
As millions mourn the passing of a beloved spiritual leader, his simple goodbye to Massimiliano Strappetti shines as a timeless lesson—one we should all carry forward.
