The Final Embrace: What the Pope’s Last Journey Teaches Us About the Role of Nurses in End-of-Life Care
– Ms Sangeetha Murugan, Bengaluru
“Thank you for bringing me back to the Square.”
— Pope Francis, to his nurse and healthcare assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti
In the stillness of his final hours, Pope Francis offered a simple yet profound thank you to the man who had been by his side—not just as a caregiver, but as a constant companion—his personal nurse and healthcare assistant, Massimiliano Strappetti. This was not a thank you for medicine or for monitoring vitals; it was a thank you for understanding his deep, personal wish—to return, one last time, to the people.
This moment transcends a mere farewell; it serves as a powerful testament to the profound, but often unseen role nurses play during life’s final chapter.
Beyond medical care, the Nurse as a companion in transition
As palliative and end-of-life care nurses, we often witness these moments—quiet exchanges, final gestures, sacred silences. Like Mr. Strappetti, we stand by our patients not only to administer care, but to honour their wishes, preserve their dignity, and walk beside them as they make their final journey.
The story of Pope Francis’ final day is not only about the global religious leader, but also about the journey of every person who, in their last moments, seeks meaning, connection, and comfort. It’s also about every nurse who responds—not just with clinical skills, but with a compassionate presence that quietly says, “You are not alone.”
The sacred role of Nurses in the final Hours
Nursing in end-of-life care is a holistic responsibility. We provide physical relief, yes, but we also offer emotional support, spiritual comfort, and human connection. We are the ones who help the dying take their final look at the world they cherish, make peace with their stories, and say their goodbyes.
Like Mr. Strappetti, we:
- Support not only the patient’s needs, but also their deepest desires.
- Hold space when families cannot.
- Listen when words are few, and remain still when presence alone is enough.
- Guide not only with knowledge, but with intuition and compassion.
A lesson for everyone
Pope Francis’ final words remind us that being present—physically, emotionally, and spiritually-is the greatest gift a nurse can offer. His final moments were peaceful and dignified—quietly unfolding just as we hope for every patient, in their own way.
Let this be a reminder: In the end, people don’t just remember the care we gave; they remember the love, understanding, and the presence we offered.
In gratitude to Nurses everywhere
To every nurse who holds a hand in the quiet of night,
who listens to stories long after the pulse slows,
who helps people return to what matters most—even if only for a moment
thank you.
You are the heart of end-of-life care.
You are the quiet strength behind every final goodbye.
You bring people back to their Square—whatever that may mean for them. From the corridors of the Vatican to the primary health Nurse, your role is noble, irreplaceable, and eternal.
On this Nurses Day, and every day, may we remind ourselves of the strength we carry, the compassion we offer, and the quiet courage we share together.
HAPPY NURSES DAY TO ALL!
About the Author:
Ms. Sangeetha Murugan, a deeply committed palliative care nurse, currently serves as the Head of Nursing Education at the Bangalore Hospice Trust, Karunashraya, Bengaluru. She holds the position of President of the Hospice and Palliative Care Nurses Association India. Additionally, she is a member of the Quality and Clinical Advisory Board of PALCARE, Mumbai, and a certified Trainer with ELNEC India.