The family of Pope Leo XIV has revealed that his eldest brother is also undergoing cancer treatment, as the pontiff recovers from his own lung surgery in Rome.
Deborah Prevost, wife of the Pope's brother Louis, told CBS News that her husband is receiving treatment for multiple myeloma, a form of blood cancer, at a hospital in Florida.
Louis was first diagnosed in 2017 but fell out of remission three months ago.
The news comes after Pope Leo underwent a successful operation at Rome's Gemelli Hospital, during which surgeons removed part of his right lung.
Speaking to CBS, Deborah said the family was "going through a lot", adding: "We keep praying, keeping spirits up for both of them.”
The Pope is expected to remain in hospital for about a week.
Vatican commentator Austen Ivereigh told Premier Christian News the Pope's illness offered an important spiritual message about human vulnerability.
"In a world of supermen and tyrants who despise weakness, it's really important that the Pope is frail, is vulnerable," he said.
"He's there by the grace of God," he added, explaining that the Pope's experience could deepen his connection with others facing cancer.
The commentator also stressed that the Pope remains in charge of the Catholic Church during his recovery, with Vatican business continuing as normal.
He said the pontiff's vulnerability offers another form of Christian witness, demonstrating that spiritual leadership does not depend on physical strength.
The Vatican says Pope Leo is recovering as expected following surgery.
