Pope Leo greeted crowds in St Peter's Square in the Vatican after undergoing surgery for lung cancer. The 71-year-old pontiff was discharged from Rome's Gemelli hospital on 17 October.
On 13 October, Leo had an operation to remove the lower lobe of his right lung following a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma. Vatican officials reported that approximately 15,000 people gathered in the square to see the leader, who was elected in May 2025.
The Vatican has cancelled all public events until at least 21 October. Leo, who is the first US pope, leads 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.
The Pope is planning to visit Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from 6 November to 17 November. Dr Stefano Margaritora stated that Leo could be fully recovered in time for the trip from 6 November to 17 November.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin noted that Leo may need to adjust the pace of his schedule going forward according to the condition of his health. Leo said, "Having overcome this delicate phase... I will now gradually resume my activities, always with the help of God and your prayers."
