Pope Leo XIV makes first public appearance following lung cancer surgery

Pope Leo XIV appeared in public for the first time since his lung cancer surgery, DW reported. The 71 year old pontiff was discharged from the Gemelli Hospital in Rome on Saturday after surgeons removed part of his right lung. [1]

As FTMQ News reported earlier, Pope Leo XIV led the traditional Angelus prayer from the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican after leaving the hospital. Thousands of Catholic faithful gathered in Saint Peter's Square to welcome him. DW reported that the pope thanked those who prayed for him during his hospital stay. [1][2]

DW reported that the pope spoke normally and looked physically well. He told the cheering crowd that he will gradually assume his duties. His surgeon stated that there is no clinical reason why his scheduled trip to South America should not go ahead. [1]

As FTMQ News reported earlier, the pope underwent surgery earlier in the week to treat a cancerous tumor in his right lung. Doctors noted during his recovery that further tests would be conducted to check if the cancer had spread. [2][3]