Pope Leo XIV has informed journalists travelling with him to Latin America that he is in pretty good health, marking his first remarks regarding his physical condition since undergoing surgery for lung cancer. The pontiff landed in Uruguay for the opening leg of a 12-day international journey undertaken merely three weeks following his operation.
Latin America Tour
The 71-year-old pontiff expressed his great happiness at being able to undertake the journey, which faced uncertainty last month when physicians detected a tumour during a routine medical scan. The itinerary includes visits to Argentina and a highly anticipated return to Peru, a country the Vatican characterized as a homecoming due to the Pope’s extensive years spent there previously as a missionary and bishop.
Speaking to reporters aboard the aircraft bound for Uruguay, the Pope noted that he never harbored any doubts about proceeding with the voyage from the outset. He credited the exceptional medical personnel for his recovery and expressed confidence in his current physical state. Medical professionals confirmed that the surgery to extract the tumour succeeded and that the cancer has not spread.
Arrival in Uruguay
Upon reaching Montevideo on Friday, crowds gathered along the seafront to chant his name as the Popemobile drove past. During his inaugural address of the tour at Plaza Independencia, the Pope stated that universal healthcare should remain accessible to all individuals. He remarked that the medical attention he received brought to mind the numerous individuals lacking resources for prompt medical diagnoses or treatments. The pontiff concluded his first day by offering a prayer at the Montevideo Cathedral.
The current voyage constitutes the sixth international tour of Pope Leo XIV, during which he will traverse over 20,000 miles. On Sunday, he is scheduled to proceed to Argentina, the native country of his predecessor Pope Francis, who never visited his homeland during his papacy. The Pope explained that the purpose of his visit centers on drawing close to individuals seeking a message of hope from the Church.
