Personal Profile About Pope Leo
Pope Leo biography looks at his childhood in Dolton, where he grew up with his parents and two older brothers. He studied mathematics at Villanova University before joining the Order of Saint Augustine in 1977. He became a priest in 1982 and spent many years working in Peru. He later served as Bishop of Chiclayo before Pope Francis appointed him to lead the Vatican's Dicastery for Bishops in 2023. On May 8, 2025, he became the 267th pope of the Catholic Church. He is the first pope born in the United States and the first member of the Augustinian order to hold the position.
Pope Leo Lung Cancer
Pope Leo lung cancer diagnosis came on October 13, 2026, after surgeons removed the lower lobe of his right lung at Gemelli Hospital in Rome. Doctors identified the disease as lung adenocarcinoma, a common form of lung cancer. The operation lasted around 90 minutes, and the medical team reported no complications. By October 15, he had resumed some official work from his hospital room. Doctors reported satisfactory recovery following surgery. Further tests were underway to establish the cancer's stage, whether it had spread, and whether additional treatment was necessary.
Pope Leo Brother
Pope Leo brother list includes Louis Martín Prevost and John Joseph Prevost. Both are older than him and grew up in the Chicago area. John worked in education and later retired as a school principal. After his brother became pope, he spoke about their close relationship and their habit of playing Wordle and Words with Friends. Louis served in the United States Navy and later settled in Florida. Both brothers have shared memories of Robert's childhood and his early interest in becoming a priest.
Pope Leo Age
Pope Leo age is 71 Years. He was born on September 14, 1955, and celebrated his 71st birthday in September 2026. He was 69 when the cardinals elected him pope in May 2025. Before his election, he had served as a priest, missionary, bishop, and senior Vatican official. His 71st year has also brought a major health concern following his lung cancer diagnosis in October 2026.
Pope Leo Family
Pope Leo family lived in Dolton, Illinois, a suburb south of Chicago. His father, Louis Marius Prevost, served in the US Navy during World War II before working as a teacher and school principal. His mother, Mildred Martínez, worked as a school librarian. Both parents were active members of their local Catholic parish. The family has French, Italian, and Spanish ancestry. Robert was the youngest of three sons, with Louis and John as his older brothers. Religion was part of their everyday life. His brother John recalled their parents praying the rosary regularly and attending church together. Robert later left home to attend a seminary school, beginning his preparation for religious life.