Pope Leo XIV appeared in public for the first time since undergoing surgery for lung cancer, greeting a crowd from a third-floor window of the Apostolic Palace and thanking the faithful for their support during his hospitalization. The pontiff, who showed a healthy appearance five days after the operation, addressed more than 20,000 pilgrims, tourists and residents gathered in St. Peter's Square.
«I wish to thank all those who have prayed for me in these days. I have truly felt your support. Thank you!» the Pope said. He also expressed particular gratitude to the doctors, nurses and staff of the Gemelli Polyclinic, where he was operated on. The Pope said the experience had brought him closer to those facing health problems and announced that he would gradually resume his activities.
The surgery took place on Tuesday, October 13, to remove a pulmonary nodule and required the removal of the lower lobe of the right lung. Although a seven-day postoperative recovery had initially been expected, Leo XIV was discharged on Saturday after blood tests and a chest X-ray returned favorable results. The results of histological studies are still pending and will determine whether he needs any additional treatment.
Questions remain about the Pope's upcoming trip to Latin America. The surgeon who led the operation, Stefano Margaritora, said there are no clinical reasons preventing the international journey planned for the coming weeks. He explained that full physical recovery could take around two weeks after the intervention. However, within the Vatican there are still doubts about the intensity of the itinerary, which includes visits to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru, with 14 flights and significant changes in altitude and climate.
The tour foresees the pontiff's arrival in Argentina between November 8 and 11, though the agenda could be modified to facilitate his recovery. Among the possible alterations is the elimination of the stop in Cusco, located at about 3,500 meters above sea level. For now, it has also not been confirmed whether Leo XIV will participate in the general audience next Wednesday, after his commitments were suspended until Tuesday, October 20.