Pope Leo XIV has been discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, four days after undergoing surgery to remove a cancerous growth from his right lung.
Key Highlights
- Pope Leo XIV leaves Gemelli Hospital four days after lung cancer surgery.
- The 71-year-old walked unaided to his car and greeted well-wishers.
- He is expected to lead the Angelus in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday.
- Results of tests on whether the cancer spread have not been made public.
- A planned November trip to Latin America, including Peru, remains uncertain.
The 71-year-old pontiff walked unaided to his waiting car on Saturday, stopping briefly to speak with well-wishers as he left the hospital.
The Vatican announced that the Pope would deliver the traditional Angelus prayer and blessing to worshippers in St. Peter’s Square on Sunday, following his discharge.
Steady Recovery After Surgery
His planned appearance comes after doctors reported steady improvement in his condition following Tuesday’s operation, which lasted approximately 90 minutes and involved removing the lower lobe of his right lung.
According to a statement from his medical team, blood tests and a chest X-ray showed encouraging progress after the procedure.
However, the results of further tests to determine whether the cancer had spread have not yet been made public.
On Friday, photographs showed the pontiff celebrating Mass and distributing communion to hospital staff, providing the first glimpse of his activities during his recovery.
The Pope’s discharge has brought relief to Catholics around the world, although questions remain about his recovery and the possibility of further treatment.
The Vatican had previously cleared his schedule until October 20, making his early departure from hospital and planned public appearance a notable development.
Read also:
- Pope Leo XIV Diagnosed With Lung Cancer After Surgery, Vatican Confirms
- Pope Leo XIV Undergoes Successful Lung Nodule Surgery, Cancels Engagements Until October 20
- Pope Leo XIV Draws Hundreds of Thousands to Open-Air Mass in Paris
Call With Putin, Appeal for Ceasefire
Beyond his health, Pope Leo XIV has continued his diplomatic engagements, speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday for the first time since June 2025.
The Vatican said the conversation focused on promoting dialogue and peace amid Russia’s continuing invasion of Ukraine and the intensifying bombardment of Ukrainian cities.
The pontiff also called for a humanitarian ceasefire in Oleshky, a city occupied by Russian forces, to enable the evacuation of residents and the delivery of urgently needed food and medical supplies.
Latin America Trip Uncertain
Meanwhile, preparations for a planned trip to Latin America in early November remain uncertain.
The visit is expected to include Peru, where the Pope spent many years as a missionary. People close to the pontiff have indicated that he is keen to proceed with the journey, although his medical condition could affect the plans.
It remains unclear whether he will be fit to travel or require additional treatment following the lung surgery.
For now, the Vatican is expected to monitor his recovery closely as the pontiff gradually resumes public activities.
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