In brief
Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Brazil's 79-year-old president, has been released from the hospital after undergoing a successful craniotomy procedure to treat a brain bleed, which resulted from an earlier fall. At a news conference, Lula shared his gratitude towards his medical team and supporters, confidently stating he is ready to continue his work. Following the surgery, Lula was reported to be stable and in good spirits, with expectations for his return to Brasilia soon.
Lula was taken to the Sírio-Libanês hospital in São Paulo after experiencing a severe headache on Monday. Doctors indicated that the brain bleed stemmed from an injury he sustained during a fall in his bathroom at the Alvorada Palace on October 19. This injury was serious enough that its effects manifested months later, leading to the need for surgical intervention to relieve pressure on his brain.“I want to thank God for taking care of me generously,” Lula remarked during the press conference, which was more of an expression of gratitude than an interview. He acknowledged the prayers and support he received while emphasizing his resilience: “I am here, alive, whole, and with more desire to work.” Doctors confirmed that he had not suffered any brain injury, and he was lucid and engaged with the medical staff post-surgery.Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin has temporarily taken over Lula's responsibilities while he recuperates, and doctors have suggested that, if all goes as planned, Lula could return to Brasilia by next week. Cancellation of his anticipated trip to a BRICS summit in Russia was deemed necessary on medical advice.Lula, who has been in office since January 2023 after a highly contested election against Jair Bolsonaro, quipped during his campaign about having the vigor of a "30-year-old." He seems resolved to continue his leadership despite this recent scare. Additional reporting attributed to Malu Cursino reinforces the narrative surrounding Lula’s spirit and commitment to his presidency.
