Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, discharged after emergency brain surgery, expresses gratitude and a renewed drive to continue his work

Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva is in good health after undergoing emergency surgery for a brain bleed, a procedure that followed a fall in October. Speaking from São Paulo’s Sírio-Libanês hospital, Lula, 79, appeared alongside his medical team and expressed his gratitude for the support he had received from both his doctors and the public.

“This is not an interview, but a moment to thank everyone who has been with me through this,” Lula said, visibly appreciative. “First, I thank God for his generosity in looking after me.”

The surgery, which took place earlier this week, was prompted by a severe headache Lula experienced on Monday, leading him to seek medical attention. Doctors confirmed that the brain bleed, known as an intracranial haemorrhage, resulted from a blow to the head during a fall in his presidential residence’s bathroom back in October. Lula, who had been cutting his toenails at the time of the incident, had sustained a blow to the back of his head.

After an initial assessment, Lula underwent a craniotomy, a procedure in which part of the skull is temporarily removed to treat the bleed and relieve pressure on the brain. Following the operation, doctors assured the public that the president was conscious, lucid, and not suffering from any long-term brain damage. He was able to engage in conversations with his medical staff during his recovery.

On Sunday, Lula addressed his supporters, expressing deep gratitude for the prayers and well wishes. “I am here, alive, whole, and with more desire to work,” he said, further affirming his commitment to his presidency. He also made a point of forgiving those who had wished him ill during his recovery, declaring, “For those who only have hate, you’re forgiven.”

Doctors said the delay in identifying the brain bleed was not uncommon, as symptoms from head injuries can sometimes take months to manifest. Lula had sustained the injury in October but did not experience significant symptoms until recently. After the fall, he received five stitches and was advised to cancel his planned trip to Russia for the BRICS summit. He resumed his duties shortly after the incident, continuing with his presidential responsibilities.

Vice-President Geraldo Alckmin temporarily took over some of Lula’s duties while he was in the hospital. According to Lula’s doctors, if his recovery continues without complication, he is expected to return to Brasília by next week.

Lula, who assumed the presidency in January 2023 after defeating former President Jair Bolsonaro in a contentious election, is known for his energetic public persona, frequently boasting of his youthful vigour during the campaign. Despite the health scare, he has made it clear that he is eager to continue leading Brazil through its ongoing challenges.