Pope Leo XIV (پاپ لئو چهاردهم) made his first appearance in public after his lung cancer surgery. During this meeting, he announced that he would gradually resume his responsibilities. The surgery took place at Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where part of his right lung was removed. The Pope was discharged from the hospital on Saturday after being hospitalized.
Thanks for Prayers and Concern for Ukraine
Pope Leo XIV expressed gratitude to those who prayed for his recovery and stated that he would gradually return to his activities. Looking well, he thanked the crowd and said, "The critical phase has been passed" and expressed his thanks to God and the prayers of the people for this matter. He also expressed appreciation to the medical staff of the hospital in Rome.
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During his hospitalization, the Pope expressed his concern for the situation of the civilian population in Ukraine and made a phone call to Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, requesting a ceasefire in the city of Oleshky, which is on the front lines of the war. Putin responded by saying that Ukraine is responsible for the current situation.
Medical Status and Future Plans
According to the Pope's surgeon, he is in "completely satisfactory" clinical condition and his full recovery is expected to take about ten days. Dr. Stefano Margaritora told the Vatican News Agency, "His determination for a quick and effective recovery in every aspect was truly commendable." The surgeon also noted that the tumor was identified during a routine X-ray examination and the surgery to remove it was also "routine."
The Pope's next plan is a trip to South America, which will include visits to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru. This trip is scheduled from November 6 to 17. Dr. Margaritora stated that there is no clinical reason for the Pope's trip to be canceled.
Currently, tests related to the tumor and associated lymph nodes are being conducted, and the results of these tests will determine whether Pope Leo requires additional medical treatment. Pope Leo XIV was elected as Pope in 2025 and is originally from Chicago.
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