Campinas, SP (UOL/Folhapress) – Pope Francis, 88, has a faithful squire for his health care: 53 -year -old Massimiliano Strapppetti. Named as Pontiff’s “Personal Medical Assistant”, Strappetti gained prominence after helping Francisco during the diverticulitis surgery in 2021.
Who is Massimiliano Strappetti
Strappetti is an experienced professional, with over 30 years of experience in the Vatican. Before becoming the Pope’s personal medical assistant, he coordinated the Vatican Health and Hygiene Nursing team.
His career began at the Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where he acted in the resuscitation wing. For the Pope, Strappetti represents the importance of nurses, professionals who are closer to patients. Francisco has already publicly praised the category, especially after the covid-19 pandemic.
The nurse is also known for his humanitarian work alongside Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, helping homeless in the Rome region.
The Pope even played that it was the nurse who “saved my life” by convincing him not to postpone diverticulitis surgery
Pope Francis Health
At 88, the Pope faces various health problems, including bronchitis, knee pain and breathing difficulties. This Friday (14), he was hospitalized at the Polyclinic Agostino Gemelli in Rome to perform examinations and continue the treatment of bronchitis that affects him since early February.
The Pontiff had to cancel commitments in the coming days, including an audience on Saturday (15) and a meeting with artists on Monday (17). A cardinal will replace Francis at Sunday Mass.
Francisco has undergone several hospitalizations in recent years. In 2021, he underwent colon surgery due to a narrowing caused by diverticulitis. The Pope also suffers from chronic knee pain, which force him to use wheelchair, cane or walker on occasion.
Despite the challenges, Francisco maintains an intense agenda and has already stated that if health prevents his work, he will consider the possibility of resignation, following the example of Benedict 16.
