The Vatican reported on Wednesday that Pope Leo is making expected progress in his recovery from surgery. He has started walking in his hospital room and eating normally after undergoing an operation for lung cancer. Global leaders, Catholics worldwide, and senior cardinals have extended prayers for his well-being following the removal of part of his right lung in the surgery.
Medical tests conducted post-surgery, including blood tests and a chest X-ray, indicated normal results. The Vatican confirmed that the pontiff received respiratory physiotherapy as part of his recovery process. The unexpected cancer diagnosis for the youthful and dynamic Pope, elected in May 2025, has led to concerns about the future course of his papacy.
Despite his usual packed schedule, including an upcoming tour of Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from Nov. 6 to 17, the Vatican affirmed that there have been no changes to the planned trip. However, Peruvian President Keiko Fujimori mentioned the possibility of adjusting the dates due to the anticipated duration of Pope Leo’s recovery.
The Pope, being the paramount figure for 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, lacks a deputy to take over during his illness. Prayers were offered during a public Mass at St. Peter’s Square for Leo’s swift recovery. The Canadian Conference of Catholic Bishops expressed solidarity with believers globally, praying for the complete healing of Pope Leo XIV and acknowledging the medical team caring for him.
Following the surgery, which removed the lower lobe of his right lung to address lung adenocarcinoma, the most prevalent form of lung cancer, the Vatican disclosed that the operation lasted about 90 minutes without complications. The specifics regarding the tumor size or potential spread to nearby lymph nodes remain undisclosed, crucial factors in determining the prognosis.
Dr. Serena Ricciardi, a lung cancer specialist, noted that if the cancer hadn’t metastasized to the lymph nodes, the surgery could be curative. Pope Leo, a non-smoker with an active lifestyle, enjoys sports like tennis. The Vatican announced that all public engagements for the Pope have been canceled until Oct. 20, anticipating his week-long hospital stay.
The assembly of bishops convened by Leo to discuss Church teachings on family life concluded with a Mass led by Filipino Cardinal Luis Tagle in place of the Pope. Various political leaders have expressed support for Pope Leo during this challenging time. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio shared prayers for the Pope’s strength and guidance for his medical team, while there was no immediate public response from President Donald Trump or Vice-President JD Vance, both of whom have contrasting interactions with the Pope.