Pope Leo XIV leaves hospital days after lung cancer surgery; Angelus planned Sunday
First seen · Oct 17, 8:55 PM (Seoul) · Last updated · Oct 17, 8:55 PM (Seoul)
Pope Leo XIV, 71, had part of his right lung removed at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Oct. 13 after a lung cancer diagnosis and is being discharged on Oct. 17. The Vatican says his post-operative tests are normal.
What happened
Pope Leo XIV, 71, underwent surgery on Oct. 13 at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital to remove part of his right lung after a lung cancer diagnosis. The Vatican said that, based on blood tests, chest X-rays and a clinical assessment, he is fit for discharge and will leave in the early afternoon of Saturday, Oct. 17.
Why it's trending
The pope resumed work from the hospital on Thursday and celebrated Mass in the hospital chapel. He spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin, voicing deep concern over the humanitarian situation in the Ukrainian city of Oleshky, and met Cardinals Tagle and Reina.
Reactions
Doctors said the lung has recovered well and post-operative tests are normal. The New York Times reported that the surgery has revived a familiar debate over how candid the Vatican is about the pope’s health.
What to watch
The pope is due to recite the Angelus from his apartment window on Sunday, Oct. 18. He plans to travel to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru next month, and journalists have already been accredited for the papal plane, though the schedule could change depending on his recovery.
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