In the aftermath of East Timorese independence on 20 May 2002, the pressure of events and the ongoing stress he endured began to show their effects on Bishop Belo's health.
I perioden efter Østtimors uafhængighed 20. maj 2002 viste det mangeårige pres og de store begivenheder sig i form af et skrantende helbred hos bisko Belo.