Pope Leo XIV has returned to the Vatican following surgery to remove a cancerous tumor from his right lung, offering a reassuring public appearance after several days of concern over his health.
The 71-year-old pontiff was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli University Hospital on Saturday, October 17, just four days after undergoing the operation. Smiling as he walked through the hospital lobby, Leo greeted medical staff, shook hands, and waved to supporters who welcomed his recovery with applause.
Doctors described the Pope’s condition as encouraging, with surgeon Stefano Margaritora reporting that his recovery was progressing satisfactorily. Medical specialists estimated that Leo could make a full postoperative recovery in approximately 10 days, although further test results are still needed to determine whether additional cancer treatment will be necessary.
The surgery involved removing the lower portion of the Pope’s right lung after doctors discovered a tumor during a routine abdominal X-ray. According to Margaritora, the abnormality was detected incidentally when the examination captured a small area near the base of the lung. The surgeon also praised the Pope’s determination throughout his recovery, noting his active cooperation with medical care.
Among the more personal moments of his hospital departure was a brief meeting with Varvara Struck, a 13-year-old Ukrainian cancer survivor who had previously received a blessing from Leo during her own treatment. Having overcome her illness, the young girl returned to offer encouragement to the pontiff, expressing hope that he, too, would recover successfully.
Despite his hospitalization, Leo has begun resuming some responsibilities, including a diplomatic phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin concerning the conflict in Ukraine. The Vatican also announced plans for the Pope to lead the traditional Angelus prayer on Sunday, October 18, from the Apostolic Palace overlooking St. Peter’s Square.
Questions remain over his scheduled November 6–17 visit to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, although his surgeon said there were currently no medical reasons to rule out the trip. Public audiences, meanwhile, remain suspended until October 20 to allow additional recovery time.
The Pope’s return has brought relief to many of the world’s approximately 1.4 billion Catholics, following a diagnosis that raised concerns early in his pontificate. While the medical team continues assessing his condition and possible next steps, his discharge marks an important recovery milestone.
For supporters who gathered outside the hospital, the sight of Leo walking, smiling, and greeting well-wishers offered a welcome moment of hope following an anxious week for the Catholic Church.
Image from Reuters