Brazil's President Luiz Ignacio Lula da Silva has been discharged from the hospital after undergoing emergency surgery for a brain bleed. The 79-year-old leader made his first public appearance since the surgery during a press conference at São Paulo's Sirio-Libanes Hospital, confidently stating, "I am here alive, well, with the urge to work. And I’ll tell you something I used to say during the campaign. I’m 79 years old, I have the energy of 30 and the enthusiasm of 20 to build this country." He expressed gratitude to the Brazilian people for their prayers, emphasizing his readiness to return to his duties as soon as possible.
President Lula was admitted to the hospital on December 4 after complaining of severe headaches. After conducting imaging tests, doctors discovered hemorrahge between his brain and the dura mater, which prompted immediate surgery on December 5 to relieve pressure caused by the bleed. During the procedure, referred to as craniotomy, part of the skull was temporarily removed. A follow-up operation on December 7 was performed to prevent any risk of additional bleeding.
Dr. Roberto Kalil, one of the doctors overseeing Lula's recovery, noted, "He is stable, walking, eating, and speaking normally. He had a very good postoperative phase, which was within expectations." Lula will require around 15 days of rest, with the only restriction being physical exercise, explained Dr. Kalil. Another doctor, Ana Helena Germoglio, commented, "The president's recovery has exceeded expectations," indicating positive prognosis for Lula.
Lula’s health issues stemmed from his fall on October 19, when he slipped and struck his head at his residence. At the time, he received five stitches for the injury. Awareness of potential complications from the head injury lingered, highlighting the risks such incidents pose even weeks after the initial trauma.
Despite the surgery, Lula’s determination to continue his political work remains unshakeable. He stated, "I'm going home now, calm, sure I’m cured and I just need to take care of myself." The president also recently addressed the situation surrounding the arrest of former Defense Minister Walter Braga Netto, who is under investigation for alleged involvement in coup plotting against Lula after the 2022 election. Lula condemned such plots against democracy, underscoring his firm belief in the respect for constitutional order.
Political analysts have suggested the latest health scare has raised questions about Lula's ability to fulfill his duties and the Workers’ Party’s succession plans for the upcoming 2026 election. Lula had been active since mid-November, hosting international summits and participating actively in public engagements following his fall. Despite his past health issues—including treatment for throat cancer and hip surgery—his return to normalcy is eagerly anticipated by supporters and members of his party.
His recent health scare has not only drawn media attention but also highlighted the resilience of the president who once joked about having "the energy of a 30-year-old." It remains to be seen how this episode will affect his schedule and plans for the future.
During his recovery period, Lula plans to avoid international travel and significant physical exercise until cleared during his follow-up exams. He is expected to remain under observation until his condition stabilizes fully.
With the recent past filled with challenges, Lula's hopeful outlook emphasizes the need for political unity and perseverance as he navigates his health and political responsibilities. His recovery symbolizes not just personal strength but also the broader aspirations of the country he leads.
