Pope Leo XIV told reporters traveling with him to Latin America that he is "in pretty good health," marking his first comments on his condition since undergoing surgery for lung cancer. The 71-year-old pontiff arrived in Uruguay on Friday, the first stop of a 12-day tour he is undertaking just three weeks after his operation.
The Pope stated he was "very happy" to make the trip, which was questioned last month after doctors discovered a tumor during a routine scan. Speaking to journalists on the plane to Uruguay, the Pope said, "I must confess that, from the very first day, I never had any doubts; I was convinced that this journey had to go forward." He attributed his condition to the "marvellous medical staff," adding, "I believe I am in quite good health."
Last month's surgery to remove the tumor was successful, and the Pope's doctors stated the cancer has not spread.
The Pope arrived in Montevideo to crowds lining the seafront. During his first speech at Plaza Independencia, he stated that universal healthcare should be "accessible to everyone." He noted that the care he received reminded him of the "many men and women who lack the means to obtain a timely diagnosis" or receive treatment. He concluded his first day with a prayer at the Montevideo Cathedral.
The tour will cover more than 20,000 miles and include Argentina and a return to Peru. The Vatican described the Peru visit as a "homecoming" because the Pope lived there for many years as a missionary and then as a bishop. On Sunday, he will travel to Argentina, the homeland of his predecessor Pope Francis. The Pope said the purpose of his visit is to be near people looking to the Church for a message of "hope."
