Brazil's Lula Declares Himself "Alive and Whole" After Brain Surgery

Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva shared his recovery journey following emergency brain surgery, emphasizing resilience and determination in a recent news conference.

 

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has been released from the hospital following an emergency craniotomy to address a brain bleed, according to his doctors. The 79-year-old leader appeared at a press conference at São Paulo’s Sírio-Libanês hospital, where he expressed deep gratitude, saying, “This here is not an interview, this is simply a session to say thanks. To thank, firstly, God, who has looked after me in a very generous manner.”

Lula was admitted to the hospital after reporting intense headaches. The severe condition stemmed from a head injury he received during a fall in his bathroom at the presidential residence last October. The craniotomy involved the surgical removal of a portion of the skull to alleviate pressure from the bleed, followed by the replacement of the bone.

“I appreciate the prayers,” Lula stated, addressing his support network during the emotional appearance. “And for those who only have hate, you're forgiven. I am here, alive, whole, and with more desire to work.” Following the surgery, medical professionals confirmed that Lula’s condition was stable, and he was lucid, engaging in conversation with the healthcare team without any signs of post-operative brain injury.

In response to inquiries about Lula's return to the capital, doctors indicated he could be back in Brasília as soon as next week, assuming his recovery continues without complications. Until then, Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin has stepped in to manage the presidential duties.

The hematoma, reportedly resulting from the fall in October, is not uncommon to manifest complications months later, according to the hospital's findings. Lula disclosed that he fell while sitting down and clipping his toenails, which led to five stitches on his head.

Initially set to attend a summit in Russia for the Brics countries, he canceled his trip on his doctors’ advice but aimed to resume full responsibilities shortly after. Lula has held his presidential position since January last year, functioning as a key figure after a competitive election against the former president, Jair Bolsonaro. Throughout his campaign, he humorously claimed he possessed "the energy of a 30-year-old." Additional insights were reported by Malu Cursino.