Pope in ‘pretty good health’ as he starts Latin America tour

Pope Leo XIV has stated that he is "in pretty good health" as he commences a 12-day Latin America tour, according to reporters accompanying him. The pontiff, 71, made his first remarks about his health following surgery for lung cancer. The tour, which began in Uruguay, is the pontiff's first international trip just three weeks after his operation.

The Pope, who is very happy to undertake this journey, previously expressed his conviction that the trip must proceed. He praised the medical staff for his successful surgery, stating, "I believe I am in quite good health."

During his visit to Uruguay, Pope Leo XIV received a warm welcome, with crowds lining the seafront to greet him as his Popemobile passed through Monetevideo. In his first speech at Plaza Independencia, he emphasized the importance of universal healthcare being accessible to all. The Pope reflected on his own medical care, saying it reminded him of the many men and women who lack the means to obtain timely diagnosis or treatment.

Pope Leo XIV's tour will span over 20,000 miles, including Argentina, where he will make a return visit to his homeland. This leg of the trip is particularly significant as it is a "homecoming" for the Pope, who spent many years in Peru as a missionary and bishop. The Vatican described this return trip as a meaningful gesture, given the Pope's yearning to be near the people who seek the Church's message of hope.