In brief
Lula, who underwent emergency surgery for a brain bleed, expressed his gratitude to the medical team and supporters, asserting he is ready to resume his duties.
Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has been successfully discharged from the hospital following emergency surgery to address a brain bleed. The operation took place after Lula, aged 79, experienced severe headaches, which led to a diagnosis requiring immediate intervention. Speaking at a press conference held at São Paulo's Sírio-Libanês hospital, Lula conveyed his heartfelt thanks to both his medical team and his supporters, stating, “This here is not an interview, this is simply a session to say thanks.” He attributed his recovery to divine intervention, declaring, “God has looked after me in a very generous manner.”The president's brain bleed, identified as an intracranial haemorrhage, stemmed from a fall he suffered at Alvorada Palace last month, where he hit his head while cutting his toenails. Doctors performed a craniotomy to remove a part of the skull, treat the bleed, and alleviate pressure, subsequently replacing the skull section. Following the surgery, which doctors described as successful, Lula was reported to be in stable condition, lucid, and engaging in conversations with his medical staff. Expressing gratitude to those who prayed for his recovery, he added, “And for those who only have hate, you're forgiven. I am here, alive, whole, and with more desire to work.” Medical experts indicated that it is not uncommon for complications from head injuries to arise weeks after the incident. As Lula continues his recovery, Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin has stepped in to fulfill some of the presidential duties.In light of his health scare, Lula canceled a planned trip to Russia for a Brics summit, but is expected back in Brasília by next week if his recovery proceeds as anticipated. Since taking office in January after a contentious election against former President Jair Bolsonaro, Lula has made headlines for his vigorous campaigning, often claiming he possessed "the energy of a 30-year-old."
