Pope Recovers From Lung Cancer Surgery, Celebrates Mass in Hospital
Pope Leo XIV shows steady improvement after lung cancer surgery and hospital Mass.
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Pope Leo XIV is showing “steady improvement” following recent surgery and a lung cancer diagnosis, with new photos showing him celebrating Mass in a hospital chapel. The 71-year-old pontiff, who underwent surgery to remove a nodule from his right lung, has been confirmed to be in stable condition by Vatican officials.
Medical Update and Hospital Mass
According to the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV underwent blood tests and a chest X-ray, which confirmed his “steady improvement” in overall condition. His personal physician, Luigi Carbone, stated that the pope will continue with respiratory physiotherapy and is now able to perform daily activities independently.
Photos released by the Holy See Press Office show Pope Leo XIV leading Mass in a makeshift chapel on the 10th floor of Gemelli Hospital in Rome. During the service, he personally distributed Holy Communion, with medical and nursing staff, as well as members of the Vatican City State Gendarmerie Corps, in attendance.
Pope Thanks Healthcare Workers
In his homily, the pope thanked all healthcare personnel for their work, especially those who have cared for him during his recovery. “In particular, I thank you for everything you have done and continue to do for me,” he said, expressing deep gratitude for the medical team’s support.
The pope was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma, a type of non-small cell lung cancer, following the surgery. While the Vatican has not confirmed whether further treatment is needed or if the cancer has spread, the pope is expected to remain in the hospital for at least one week.
Public Appearances and Cancellations
All audiences until October 20 have been canceled, and the pope is scheduled to make his first public appearance since the operation on Sunday for the Angelus prayer. It remains unclear whether this will take place at the hospital or the Vatican.
The Vatican has provided regular updates on the pope’s condition, emphasizing his resilience and the support he has received from both medical staff and the faithful. As he continues his recovery, the focus remains on his health and the ongoing care provided by the medical team.
Source: Daily Wire
