The medical team treating Pope Francis contemplated halting his treatment to allow him to pass away, according to the lead doctor, following the 88-year-old pontiff’s hospitalization for a prolonged respiratory illness.
Professor Sergio Alfieri shared with Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera that the most critical moment came on February 28 when the pope experienced a breathing crisis and accidentally inhaled his own vomit.
“We faced the decision of whether to stop and let him go or to continue with all available drugs and therapies, fully aware of the high risk of causing damage to other organs. Ultimately, we chose to continue,” Alfieri explained.
The decision to proceed with treatment was made by Massimiliano Strappetti, the pope’s nurse. Strappetti reportedly told Alfieri, “Try everything, we won’t give up. That was the consensus among all of us. And no one gave up.”
Pope Francis left the hospital on March 23, after spending 38 days there, the longest hospitalization of his papacy. During his stay, he faced multiple respiratory crises, two of which were life-threatening, according to Alfieri.
Throughout his hospitalization, the Vatican shared detailed updates on the pope’s condition, which Alfieri explained were made based on the pope’s wishes. “From the very beginning, he asked us to be honest with him and to openly share the truth about his condition… Nothing was altered or concealed,” Alfieri stated.
Now back at his residence in Casa Santa Marta, Pope Francis will undergo treatment, including mobility and respiratory physiotherapy, particularly for voice recovery, as well as engage in personal prayer, as reported by the Vatican.
Doctors have recommended that the pope receive 24-hour medical care, including oxygen therapy, to be ready in case of emergencies.
Pope Francis is expected to resume his duties gradually. Despite his health challenges, he has shown strong determination to recover, continuing to sign documents and take on some responsibilities. Though he has not led the Angelus prayer for the past seven Sundays, he has still offered weekly reflections, most recently calling for peace in conflict-ridden areas.
“Your prayers for me have been full of patience and perseverance. I thank you deeply. I also pray for you,” he posted on X on Sunday. “Let us unite in prayer for peace, particularly for the suffering people of Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.”
