People across the San Francisco Bay Area have sent Pope Leo XIV messages of support after the Vatican confirmed that he has lung cancer.
The Pope underwent surgery at Rome’s Agostino Gemelli University Hospital on Tuesday to remove the lower lobe of his right lung. The Vatican said the operation was completed successfully and without complications.
Doctors confirmed that the growth was a lung adenocarcinoma, a form of lung cancer, after examining tissue removed during the procedure.
Those speaking in the Bay Area expressed their hopes for a full and speedy recovery, with prayers and well wishes being offered for the Pope as he begins his recuperation.
A Vatican statement said Pope Leo had a calm night following the operation. He woke normally after surgery and returned to his room after a short period of observation.
The 71-year-old pontiff is expected to remain in hospital for about a week while he undergoes further post-operative checks. The Vatican has not yet disclosed the stage of the cancer or whether additional treatment will be needed.
