Pope Leo talks health and voting en route to South America

ABOARD THE PAPAL FLIGHT — Pope Leo came to the back of the plane on Friday to greet approximately 80 journalists traveling with him to South America. He got a bunch of questions in return, most of which he answered.

The pope usually pays a visit to the journalists’ section on the outbound flight of an international trip. This is not supposed to be a press conference, which typically happens on the flight home, but reporters naturally spring at the chance to pose quick questions, and Leo is generally obliging.

Many of the questions this time were, unsurprisingly, about the pope’s health. He is making the 12-day trip less than a month after undergoing surgery for lung cancer.

In brief remarks to the whole cabin, Leo acknowledged that “some people were doubtful about this trip taking place,” but he said he “had no doubt and was convinced that this trip had to go forward.”

Later, a reporter wanted to know the pope’s secret for springing back so quickly from surgery. The answer: “Faith in God, good doctors, and a healthy lifestyle.” Leo had advice for cancer patients: “Not to be afraid. Early detection is obviously the best way to go, and so regular checkups are a blessing. And…