Pope Francis expressed his appreciation to his personal nurse, Massimiliano Strappetti, who had encouraged him to take a final ride in the popemobile on Easter Sunday, the Vatican has revealed.
The Pontiff passed away on Monday morning at the age of 88, following a stroke.
His death comes less than a month after he returned home from a five-week hospital stay, during which he battled double pneumonia.
“Thank you for bringing me back to the square,” Francis told Strappetti, in what were among his final words.
The Pontiff rode around for approximately 15 minutes, although he appeared weak and exhausted, waving to the crowds in St Peter’s Square.
“Do you think I can manage it?” the Pope had asked Strappetti before agreeing to go on the ride.
It is understood that the nurse, whom Francis had previously credited with saving his life, offered reassurance.
Francis spent the afternoon resting in his Vatican residence, Casa Santa Marta, and had a peaceful dinner, Vatican News reported.
