Pope ‘In Good Shape’ After Appendectomy

Pope John Paul II will have his stitches out and return to the Vatican on Tuesday to continue his convalescence following an appendectomy.

A medical bulletin issued by Gemelli Polyclinic Hospital on Monday said the 76-year-old pontiff’s recovery was “fully satisfactory” and that he was gradually resuming his daily activities.

“He’s in good shape,” said Dr. Attilio Maseri, chief cardiologist at the hospital. “He’s better than I thought he would be.”