During Pope Francis’ recent hospitalisation for a severe respiratory illness, his medical team faced a critical decision about whether to continue treatment, according to Professor Sergio Alfieri, the lead doctor overseeing his care.
Speaking to Corriere della Sera, Alfieri revealed that the most serious moment occurred on February 28, when the 88-year-old pontiff suffered a respiratory crisis and inhaled his own vomit.
The medical team had to determine whether to cease intervention or proceed with intensive therapies, despite the significant risk of harming other organs.
“We had to decide whether to let him go or to try everything possible with medications and treatments,” Alfieri explained. “Ultimately, we chose to continue.”
The decision to persist with treatment was made by Francis’ personal healthcare assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti, who has been entrusted with all medical decisions on behalf of the pope.
Strappetti reportedly told Alfieri, “Try everything, we won’t give up.” This sentiment was echoed by the entire medical team, ensuring every effort was made to stabilise the pontiff’s condition.
After 38 days in Rome’s Gemelli hospital, the longest hospital stay of his papacy, Francis was discharged on March 23.
Throughout his hospitalisation, he experienced multiple respiratory crises, two of which were described as life-threatening.Unprecedented transparency was maintained regarding the pope’s condition, with the Vatican regularly issuing health updates.
Alfieri emphasised that this openness was at Francis’ request. “From the beginning, he asked us to be truthful with him and to communicate his condition honestly,” Alfieri said, adding that the medical bulletins were prepared collaboratively with input from the pope’s personal secretaries.
Following his discharge, Francis returned to his residence at Casa Santa Marta, where he is undergoing physiotherapy to aid mobility, respiratory function, and voice recovery. His doctors have recommended continuous medical supervision, including oxygen therapy and emergency preparedness.
Despite ongoing health challenges, the pope has gradually resumed his responsibilities, signing official documents and preparing to return to his duties.
However, on medical advice, he will continue to rest, prompting the postponement of a planned state visit by Britain’s King Charles and Queen Camilla to the Vatican.
Buckingham Palace confirmed that while the royal couple will proceed with their visit to Italy from April 7-10, their schedule will be adjusted accordingly.
Although Pope Francis has been unable to lead the traditional Angelus prayer for seven consecutive Sundays, he has continued to offer weekly reflections, often calling for peace in conflict-ridden regions.
“You have continued to pray for me with so much patience and perseverance. Thank you so much. I also pray for you,” he shared in a message on X. “Let us pray together for peace, especially in martyred Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.”
About the Author
