– In a documentary called “The Unknown Life of John Paul II,” Renato Buzzonetti said he struggled with “phone treatment.” Someone from the Pope’s closest entourage called him, informed him about the ailments and asked the doctor to immediately tellwhat medications should be given.
– It also happened because the Pope expected it. We may not have liked it, but that was the decision of the Holy Father. John Paul II did not want to waste time on medical examinations. He was a titan of work, and yet he often lacked time to settle many matters. He had everything very carefully planned and prepared, but something new kept coming up. Dr. Buzzonetti was relentless. He insisted that he had to examine the patient personally. He wanted to know exactly what ailments he had, how he was feeling, and if anything else was wrong with him. He was decisive and effective. The Pope, whether he wanted or not, had to find time to see him. And, when he came to the Holy Father, he treated the Pope normally, as every patient is treated. And, it was very good. Perhaps someone else would be nervous. While Dr. Buzzonetti behaved naturally, without being too polite. He asked directly, about everything. For example, whether the Pope really took the prescribed medications? He said that he needed to get some exercise.
– To get some exercise? Was the Pope recommended, for example, to ride a bicycle?
– No, a physiotherapist came and there were exercises. But, the Holy Father did it reluctantly. Under the influence of the doctor and Fr. Stanislaus, he sometimes agreed to this.
Secretary of two Holy Fathers – conversation with Archbishop Mieczysław Mokrzycki.
Wydawnictwo Literackie Publishing House
