VATICAN CITY — Pope Leo XIV is set to be discharged from hospital on Saturday, October 17, just four days after undergoing surgery for lung cancer, as the Vatican reports steady improvement in the 71-year-old pontiff’s recovery.
The Vatican confirmed that the pope would leave Rome’s Agostino Gemelli University Hospital on Saturday afternoon and return to the Vatican. His medical team determined that he was fit for discharge following encouraging blood test results, a chest X-ray and an assessment of his overall clinical condition.
The announcement offers encouraging news for Catholics worldwide who have been following updates on the pope’s health since his hospitalisation earlier this week.
Surgery Confirmed Lung Cancer Diagnosis
Pope Leo underwent surgery on Tuesday, October 13, after doctors identified a suspicious nodule in his right lung. Surgeons removed the lower lobe of the lung in a procedure the Vatican described as successful.
Subsequent examinations confirmed that the growth was lung adenocarcinoma, the most common type of lung cancer. However, further medical information will be needed to determine whether additional treatment is necessary.
During his hospital stay, the pope underwent respiratory physiotherapy and gradually resumed his normal activities. His doctors reported that his recovery was progressing well and that he could carry out daily tasks independently.
Pope Plans First Public Appearance Since Surgery
Despite his recent operation, Pope Leo is expected to make his first public appearance since being hospitalised on Sunday, October 18.
The Vatican announced that he would deliver the traditional Angelus prayer and blessing at noon from a window overlooking St. Peter’s Square. The appearance will provide an opportunity for Catholics and other well-wishers to see the pontiff following his surgery.
On Friday, the Vatican released the first photographs of Pope Leo since the operation. The images showed him celebrating Mass inside the hospital chapel, dressed in green liturgical vestments and standing at the altar.
During the service, he thanked doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers for their dedication to caring for sick and vulnerable patients.
Vatican Monitors Recovery and Future Plans
The pope’s discharge marks an important step in his recovery, although doctors will continue monitoring his condition and assessing whether further treatment is required.
The Vatican has also been preparing for his planned visit to Uruguay, Argentina and Peru from November 6 to 17. His medical condition could influence those plans, depending on how his recovery progresses.
For now, his return to the Vatican and planned Sunday appearance provide positive signs as the Catholic Church awaits further updates on his health.
Swifteradio.com
