Pope Recovers Swiftly After Lung Cancer Surgery

Pope Leo XIV is showing remarkable progress in his recovery after undergoing surgery for lung cancer. Days after the procedure, he has returned to the Vatican and has been seen interacting with well-wishers and patients. His surgeon, Dr. Stefano Margaritora, has confirmed that the pontiff is healing well.

Dr. Margaritora stated that Pope Leo XIV has been "heart and soul" committed to his recovery and anticipates a full recuperation within approximately ten days. This positive outlook supports the Pope's planned ambitious trip to South America next month, which includes travel to Uruguay, Peru, and Argentina, involving flights and helicopter rides to high altitudes.

The surgery on Tuesday involved the removal of the lower lobe of the Pope's right lung due to adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer. The cancer was detected in its early stages, and the Pope experienced no respiratory symptoms prior to the procedure. He was discharged from the hospital on Saturday, sooner than initially expected.

Despite the recent surgery, Pope Leo XIV has maintained a degree of activity, including a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin and meetings with aides. He is scheduled to deliver the traditional Angelus blessing on Sunday, October 18, marking his first official duty since the surgery. This date is exactly one week after he publicly revealed the discovery of the nodule that led to the operation.