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Pope Leo XIV arrives at the Agostino Gemelli Polyclinic in Rome, Tuesday, Oct. 13, 2026, where he's expected to be operated to remove a lung nodule.
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The Vatican has released the first images of Pope Leo XIV since his lung cancer surgery. He is shown celebrating Mass at Gemelli hospital, where he thanked staff for their care. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni said Leo presided alone over the liturgy and distributed Communion. Doctors confirmed his recovery is progressing well, allowing him to perform daily activities independently. The Vatican is preparing for his upcoming trip to South America, though plans could change. Meanwhile, cancer patients have sent him well-wishing notes. Vatican officials are considering adjustments to his schedule based on his health.
