Pope Leo XIV Resumes Duties After Lung Cancer Surgery

Pope Leo XIV announced on Sunday that he has surpassed a crucial period in his recovery following lung cancer surgery. He plans to gradually resume his responsibilities. This comes days after surgeons removed part of his right lung.

“I would like to thank all those who have prayed for me in recent days,” Leo stated on X. “I wish to express my particular gratitude to the doctors, nurses and all the staff of the Gemelli Hospital.” He added, “This experience has made me feel particularly close to all those who are living with illness or infirmity. Now that I have overcome this delicate phase, I will gradually resume my activities, always with God’s help and your prayers.”

These remarks were made during the Pope’s Sunday appearance at the Vatican following his discharge from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. The 71-year-old was released after a four-day hospital stay.

Leo’s surgery confirmed a diagnosis of lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer. The Vatican announced the removal of the lower lobe of his right lung. This news came roughly 17 months into Leo’s papacy. He was elected in May 2025 as the first American pope.

What the Vatican Has Said

The Vatican reported that Leo’s recovery was progressing normally during his hospitalization. Blood tests and a chest X-ray post-surgery showed expected recovery. The pope resumed walking, started his regular diet, and celebrated Mass while in the hospital.

His public reappearance at the Apostolic Palace window on Sunday marked a significant step in his recovery.

White House Sends Well Wishes

President Donald Trump expressed his best wishes to Leo following the cancer diagnosis. “I want to see Pope Leo get well,” Trump told reporters before leaving Arizona Thursday. He noted that the prognosis seemed positive. “We just want to wish him our love and our best wishes.” This came after months of public friction between Trump and Leo, particularly concerning issues such as the Iran war and immigration.

Trump highlighted the connection with the Pope’s brother, Louis Prevost, a registered Republican and Trump supporter. “His brother and his wife—they are big Trump supporters. I can say that his brother loves him a lot, loves the pope a lot,” Trump stated. “And that’s good, that’s good enough for me. But I just want to wish him well. Get better fast.”

Vice President JD Vance, a Catholic, also offered support, writing on X: “Our family continues to pray for the good health and full recovery of Pope Leo XIV. May God grant him strength as he works to get better. I hope he knows that millions of American Christians are thinking about him.” Vance extended wishes to Prevost, battling multiple myeloma, as reported by CBS News.

What Happens Next

Leo’s upcoming engagement is a South American trip from November 6 to 17. He is scheduled to visit Peru, Uruguay, and Argentina. The journey includes a dozen flights and two helicopter rides to high altitudes. According to Dr. Stefano Margaritora, there are no clinical reasons to cancel the trip.

However, questions remain about the cancer’s spread. No prognosis has been shared. Options like chemotherapy, combination treatments, and targeted oral therapy are under consideration based on the tumor’s genetic profile.