Pope Leo XIV returns to Vatican after lung tumor surgery, thanks supporters
Pope Leo XIV underwent surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital to remove a growth in his right lung. He was discharged on Saturday and appeared at the apostolic palace window on Sunday, delivering the Angelus and thanking the faithful, surgeons and nurses. He said he will resume his duties gradually and indicated that his planned November visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru remains possible. The surgeon described the operation as a routine thoracic procedure without complications, and his recovery is being monitored as he prepares for upcoming responsibilities.
How this was covered
- Coverage peaked at 27 outlets in a single hour
Why it matters
The pope’s health influences the spiritual leadership of Catholics worldwide and the schedule of a major Latin American pilgrimage.
How this story developed
- Oct 14 Pope Leo XIV recovers steadily after lung surgery
- Oct 14 A new Vatican bulletin confirmed Pope Leo XIV’s lung cancer and outlined his recovery steps.
- Oct 15 Routine check-ups this morning returned normal findings as the Pope continues recovery.
- Oct 16 Pope Leo XIV resumed work from his hospital room and continued physiotherapy.
- Oct 16 Pope Leo XIV called Vladimir Putin by phone, asking for a cease-fire in Oleschky to allow food, medical aid and safe evacuation of civilians.
- Oct 16 Pope Leo celebrated Mass at Gemelli Hospital and a medical bulletin reported improvement in his condition.
- Oct 16 Putin’s call to the pope included discussion of a short‑term humanitarian pause for Oleshky.
- Oct 17 Pope Leo XIV is expected to recite the Angelus from the 10th-floor balcony of Agostino Gemelli Hospital on Sunday, with Italian police coordinating security.
- Oct 17 The Pope has moved from hospital care to discharge and will resume public duties.
- Oct 18 He left the hospital feeling well and cancelled audiences through Tuesday.
- Oct 18 He appeared at the Vatican window on Sunday delivering the Angelus after discharge.
- Oct 20 Pope Leo asked Ukrainian President Zelensky to cooperate with Russia on delivering aid to Oleshky.
Related stories
4 in this thread