The Vatican reported on Wednesday that Pope Leo is making expected progress in his recovery from surgery and has started walking and eating normally in his hospital room. This update comes after doctors disclosed that the 71-year-old pontiff was undergoing treatment for lung cancer. Leaders worldwide, Catholic communities, and senior cardinals have been offering prayers for Leo following the partial removal of his right lung during the recent operation.
Medical assessments including blood tests and a chest X-ray conducted on Wednesday revealed normal post-surgery outcomes, with the pontiff undergoing respiratory physiotherapy as part of his recuperation process. The unexpected cancer diagnosis for Pope Leo, known for his youthful vigor and recent election in May 2025, has stirred reactions and prompted speculations about the future direction of his papacy.
Despite his busy schedule, which includes an upcoming tour of Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6 to 17, the Vatican affirmed that there have been no changes to the planned trip. However, Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori hinted at potential adjustments to the schedule due to the necessary duration of Leo’s recovery.
The Pope, as the highest authority for 1.4 billion Catholics globally, lacks a deputy to assume his duties when he is unwell. During periods of incapacity, the Vatican’s operations continue without making decisions requiring papal consent. A prayer for Leo’s swift recovery and well-being was recited during a public Mass at St. Peter’s Square post-surgery.
The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops expressed solidarity with believers worldwide in praying for Pope Leo’s complete healing. The pontiff’s diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, the most prevalent form of lung cancer, led to the removal of a lobe from his right lung to eradicate the cancerous tissue. The surgery, led by Professor Stefano Margaritora and Dr. Luigi Carbone, concluded without complications.
Information on the tumor size or potential spread to nearby lymph nodes, crucial for prognosis, has not been disclosed by the Vatican. Dr. Serena Ricciardi, a specialist in lung cancer, suggested that if the cancer had not extended to the lymph nodes, the surgery might suffice as a curative measure.
Leo’s hospital stay is anticipated to last about a week with all public engagements canceled until October 20. The recent assembly of bishops called by Leo to discuss Church teachings on family life concluded with a Mass led by Filipino Cardinal Luis Tagle in the Pope’s absence. Political figures, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, extended prayers for Leo’s recovery, emphasizing the importance of medical care and support for the pontiff during this challenging time.
