Pope Leo pledges return to duties following lung cancer surgery
Pope Leo has pledged to gradually return to his papal duties following lung cancer surgery. Five days after undergoing an operation to remove the lower lobe of his right lung, the 71-year-old pontiff appeared publicly in St. Peter's Square on Sunday. This marks his first public appearance since the procedure, which has led to speculation about the future of his papacy. Speaking to pilgrims from a window of the Vatican's Apostolic Palace, Pope Leo indicated his intention to resume his usual activities as the leader of the Catholic Church.