«Always prepare yourself at the highest level, because life can present you with unimaginable things.» Dr. Fabrizio Soccorsi recalled those words of his father when reflecting on his new position as Pope Francis’ new physician.
The Holy Father nominated the 73-year-old Roman doctor as his personal physician on August 8th. Dr. Soccorsi spoke on his new job in this week’s edition of the Italian magazine, Il Mio Papa.
Although he has served as a medical consultant for the Holy See for the past 22 years, the Roman physician was surprised by the nomination.
«I asked myself: ‘But why me?'» he said. «Sincerely, I would have never expected this appointment. I was reminded by the words of my father: ‘Always prepare yourself at the highest level, because life can present you with unimaginable things.’ Even as unexpected as this…»
Dr. Soccorsi went on to say that despite the heavy responsibility of looking after the Holy Father’s health, he is focused on the task at hand.
«I have dedicated my life to patients and therefore I feel all the responsibility, even more so today with the Holy Father,» he said. «But it is a situation that I live without anxiety, although I am still a bit bewildered.»
Concluding his interview, Dr. Soccorsi expressed his admiration for his newest patient and the work ahead.
"My job is a mission, but in front of the Pope I feel a very ‘strong’ emotion that really moves me,» he said.
