Pope Leo XIV is continuing his recovery at the Vatican following surgery for lung cancer, with encouraging news from his medical team and confirmation that he plans to resume a public appearance this week.
The Holy See Press Office announced Monday, October 19, that the Holy Father will hold his regularly scheduled General Audience on Wednesday, October 21, in St. Peter’s Square. The announcement comes just days after the Pope was discharged from Rome’s Gemelli Hospital, where he underwent surgery to remove a malignant tumor from his right lung.
According to Vatican News, Pope Leo will remain in the Apostolic Palace throughout the week rather than travel to his residence in Castel Gandolfo, where he ordinarily spends time on Mondays and Tuesdays.
The decision will allow the Pontiff to continue recovering while gradually returning to his responsibilities.
Surgeon Reveals Encouraging Details About Pope Leo’s Health
In a separate interview with Vatican News, Professor Stefano Margaritora, the surgeon who performed the October 13 operation, offered reassuring details about the Pope’s condition and the success of the procedure.
“At the time of his discharge from the hospital, Pope Leo was in entirely satisfactory clinical condition. His blood test results were completely normal, and his heart function was fine,” Margaritora said.
The surgeon explained that the Pope’s lung was recovering as expected following the removal of the lower lobe of his right lung.
“The operation went ahead without any complications, and that is what we always hope for before every operation,” he said.
Although the diagnosis involved a malignant tumor, Margaritora described the surgical procedure itself as routine for this type of condition.
The physician also revealed that the cancer had been discovered unexpectedly during routine abdominal examinations. A small abnormality became visible near the base of the Pope’s lung, prompting the discovery of the tumor.
According to Margaritora, Pope Leo had experienced no respiratory symptoms and had felt well before the diagnosis.
The surgeon emphasized the importance of preventive medical examinations, particularly because lung cancer can develop without noticeable symptoms in its early stages.
An Unexpected Glimpse Into the Pope’s Hospital Recovery
Beyond the medical details, Margaritora shared a personal account of the Holy Father’s determination and positive attitude throughout his hospitalization.
“Pope Leo was an ideal patient. I am not saying that to flatter him,” the surgeon told Vatican News.
He described the Pope as consistently cheerful, cooperative, and determined to regain his strength, even while experiencing the discomfort associated with major surgery.
The Holy Father carefully followed medical guidance concerning his diet and physical therapy, often exceeding the expectations of his healthcare team.
One particularly memorable moment occurred just two days after surgery.
“On the second day after the operation, we turned around and found him arranging the chairs in the chapel himself,” Margaritora recalled.
When the medical staff offered to handle the task, the Pope responded, “It doesn’t matter. I can do it, so I will.”
The account offers Catholics a personal glimpse into the Holy Father’s character during a difficult period, revealing his determination to remain active despite the physical challenges of recovery.
Pope Leo’s Upcoming International Visit Receives Encouraging Medical Outlook
The Pope’s recovery has also raised questions about his upcoming international travel, particularly a scheduled visit to Latin America from November 6 through November 17.
According to Vatican News, Margaritora believes the Holy Father could make a full physical recovery within approximately ten more days.
“Since almost a week has already passed, I believe the Pope could be fully recovered in another ten days or so,” the surgeon explained.
Asked whether the Pope would be physically capable of undertaking the demanding international journey, Margaritora offered an encouraging assessment.
“As for a long trip involving air travel in about three weeks, I would say there are no clinical reasons why it should not take place.”
His comments provide a positive medical outlook, although they do not constitute an official confirmation that the trip will proceed.
Questions also remain about the Pope’s scheduled October 27 visit to Assisi, where he is expected to participate in the conclusion of an event titled “Unarmed and Disarming Peace.”
The gathering, organized by the Community of Sant’Egidio, commemorates the 40th anniversary of the historic 1986 interreligious gathering for peace associated with Pope St. John Paul II.
The Holy See has not yet confirmed whether Pope Leo will attend.
Catholics Await the Holy Father’s Return to St. Peter’s Square
Pope Leo returned to the Vatican on Saturday, October 17, after spending five days at Gemelli Hospital.
The following day, he appeared at the window of the Apostolic Palace to greet approximately 15,000 people gathered in St. Peter’s Square, according to Vatican News.
The gathering offered a visible expression of affection and support for the Holy Father following his hospitalization.
Wednesday’s confirmed General Audience will mark another step in his gradual return to public activities. However, the Vatican has not yet indicated whether he will travel through the square in the popemobile to greet the faithful.
For Catholics around the world who have followed the Pope’s health concerns, the latest medical assessments offer encouraging signs that his recovery is progressing well.
The Holy See is expected to provide further information about his schedule and upcoming engagements in the days ahead.
As Pope Leo continues to regain his strength, the faithful are invited to keep the Holy Father in their prayers, asking God to grant him healing, renewed energy, and the strength to continue his mission of guiding the Church.
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