Rome, October 13 (askanews) – Pope Leo arrived shortly after 13 p.m. at Rome's Gemelli Hospital to be admitted and then undergo surgery for a nodule in his lung. The main entrance to the facility, where the statue dedicated to Pope John II and entitled "Do Not Be Afraid!" stands out, was crowded with onlookers, patients, cameramen, and journalists, many from international news outlets.
The pontiff arrived in a black Ford SUV and was greeted by applause from those present. Pope Prevost greeted the authorities and hospital management and immediately headed inside. Those present wished the pontiff a speedy recovery, told them to "pray for him," and some even called for "an end to war."