Selena Gomez has revealed that she underwent an urgent kidney transplant this summer, as the singer's best friend donated one of their kidneys to save her life.
She opened up about the surgery in her latest Instagram post.
She said: "I'm very aware some of my fans had noticed I was laying low for part of the summer and questioning why I wasn't promoting my new music, which I was extremely proud of. So I found out I needed to get a kidney transplant due to my Lupus and was recovering. It was what I needed to do for my overall health.
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"I honestly look forward to sharing with you, soon, my journey through these past several months as I have always wanted to do with you. Until then I want to publicly thank my family and incredible team of doctors for everything they have done for me prior to and post-surgery.
"And finally, there aren't words to describe how I can possibly thank my beautiful friend Francia Raisa. She gave me the ultimate gift and sacrifice by donating her kidney to me. I am incredibly blessed. I love you so much sis."
Credit: Instagram/Selena Gomez
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The 25-year-old has suffered from lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease which affects the body's immune system, since 2015.
She encouraged fans to learn more about the disease by visiting the Lupus Research Alliance website, lupusresearch.org.
Francia, who donated her organ, is a close friend of the pop singer and actress, and had previously shared a tribute to Selena on her birthday last year.
"I am obsessed with every memory we've built in the last eight years and the ones we have yet to create. I am so grateful that God put you in my life when he did," Francia wrote.
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She added: "It's been so inspiring watching you grow and to grow with you. I learn so much from you and I'm so so so proud of you. Happy Birthday Hermana. Love you so so so much."
A true friend.
Source: TMZ