An Unexpected Reunion in Rome
A 13-year-old Ukrainian girl who recently recovered from cancer met Pope Leo XIV outside Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on Saturday, October 17, as the Pontiff was leaving after surgery.
Varvara, originally from Berdyansk, first encountered Pope Leo in St Peter’s Square on December 31, 2025, while she was awaiting cancer treatment.
Their second meeting took place after the Pope was discharged from hospital following surgery on his right lung.
A Young Refugee’s Journey
Varvara and her family fled Ukraine following the outbreak of war and eventually settled in northern Italy, where she received medical treatment.
According to Vatican News, recent examinations confirmed her recovery.
Having learned about the Pope’s hospitalization, Varvara travelled to Rome with her parents to offer her support.
She presented the Pontiff with a photograph of their previous meeting and a small handmade toy.
A Gesture of Gratitude
During the brief encounter, the young girl thanked Pope Leo for the encouragement she had received during her illness.
The Pope greeted and blessed her before continuing his journey back to the Vatican.
The reunion brought together two personal experiences of illness and recovery, highlighting the importance of compassion and encouragement.
