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Pope Leo cancels Assisi trip to aid recovery from cancer surgery
The Vatican said he will send a message to organizers and religious leaders as recovery continues after surgery removed part of his right lung.
On Friday, thoracic surgeon Professor Stefano Margaritora told Vatican News that Pope Leo XIV shows excellent recovery, stating there are "no clinical reasons" preventing his ambitious November 6–17 Latin America trip.
Pope Leo XIV underwent surgery on October 13 to remove the lower lobe of his right lung after doctors diagnosed adenocarcinoma; follow-up tests confirmed the cancer was localized and required no further treatment.
Despite his progress, the Vatican announced Friday that Pope Leo XIV will skip an October 27 peace gathering in Assisi, as doctors advised avoiding the helicopter journey "to facilitate his recovery" from surgery.
After a four-day hospital stay, the pontiff returned to the Vatican on Saturday and resumed public duties, greeting pilgrims in St. Peter's Square on Wednesday as part of his gradual recovery schedule.
His November 6–17 Latin America visit remains scheduled, involving a dozen flights and high-altitude travel, though medical experts emphasize the Pope's activities will continue guided by ongoing medical advice.