Pope Leo XIV has officially been discharged from Rome’s Gemelli hospital, returning to the Vatican on Saturday just four days after undergoing a surgical procedure to remove a cancerous tumor from his right lung. The 71-year-old pontiff appeared in good spirits as he walked through the hospital lobby, waving to well-wishers and shaking hands before heading home in a black SUV. Before departing, he shared a heartfelt moment with a young Ukrainian cancer survivor who had come to offer him support, mirroring the comfort he once provided her during her own recovery.

According to his medical team, the Pope’s recovery is progressing remarkably well, with surgeon Stefano Margaritora praising his "commendable" determination to heal. While he has cleared his schedule for upcoming audiences until October 20, he is already transitioning back into his duties, including a recent call to Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the conflict in Ukraine. The Vatican confirmed that the Pope intends to lead the traditional Angelus prayer from the Apostolic Palace this Sunday, and doctors remain optimistic that he will be physically ready for his upcoming apostolic journey to South America in November.