Pope Leo XIV’s cancer diagnosis and surgery are now considered a “gamechanger,” according to the Vatican’s foreign minister.
Photo: Vatican Media/Website
Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican’s foreign minister, said that there had been perceptions of Pope Leo as a “Superman, a Superpope” to which he attributed to Pope Leo’s young age for a pope, as well as his fitness.
“The fact that he has fallen ill with, in many ways, one of the most common illnesses of our age means that he is a poor mortal like the rest of us,” Gallagher told the media on October 27, 2026.
Following the news of Pope Leo’s cancer diagnosis and his successful surgery on the lower lobe of his right lung, Gallagher said that it might change the way Catholics view him. He added: “And possibly how he sees himself as well.”
He said that even if the lung operation was a success, this could still be a big gamechanger for Pope Leo.
Pope Leo to proceed with November 6 to 17 trip
Meanwhile, the Vatican confirmed that Pope Leo will proceed with his planned trip to Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru from November 6 to November 17, 2026.
This follows doctors’ decision that there are no medical reasons for Pope Leo to forgo his travels.
Gallagher also said that Pope Leo wanted to proceed with the trip.
“All of the medical advice is very positive, from a clinical point of view, so he feels he can go,” the Holy See’s foreign minister explained.
Pope Leo also shared on his X the news of his trip to the countries:
I am looking forward to returning to the continent where I’ve experienced so many moments of my life. May this journey be an occasion for us to open our hearts to one another, strengthen our communion as brothers and sisters, and renew our commitment to proclaiming the Gospel with joy. #Uruguay #Argentina #Peru
— Pope Leo XIV (@Pontifex) October 26, 2026
On October 11, 2026, Pope Leo XIV announced that during his recent medical examinations, the doctors found a “small, localized nodule” in his lung. Following his doctors’ advice, he decided to undergo surgery, which took place on October 13, 2026.
After the surgery, he thanked those who prayed for him, and since then, the Pope has been slowly resuming his daily activities.
I would like to thank all those who have prayed for me in recent days. I wish to express my particular gratitude to the doctors, nurses and all the staff of the Gemelli Hospital. This experience has made me feel particularly close to all those who are living with illness or infirmity. Now that I have overcome this delicate phase I will gradually resume my activities, always with God’s help and your prayers.
— Pope Leo XIV (@Pontifex) October 18, 2026
ALSO READ: What Is Lung Adenocarcinoma? Understanding Pope Leo XIV’s Diagnosis
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