Selena Gomez has revealed she underwent a kidney transplant this summer as part of her ongoing Lupus battle.
On Thursday (September 14), Selena confirmed on Instagram that she underwent surgery with the help of her friend Francia Raisa, who donated a kidney to the Wizards of Waverly Place actress.
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Selena's post included pictures of her scrubbed up for surgery, as well as pictures of her resulting scar, and an acknowledgement that the autoimmune condition "continues to be very misunderstood".
"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," she said.
"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.
"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."
She added: "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.
"Lupus continues to be very misunderstood but progress is being made."
That's one brave lady, and her incredibly generous and equally brave friend. Speaking of that friend, Francia Raisa paid beautiful tribute Selena in her own Instagram message on Thursday.
"I am beyond grateful that God would trust me with something that not only saved a life, but changed mine in the process," she wrote. "This was part of our story, and we will share it soon, but what is important now is that this is not the only story."
For more information about Lupus, please visit Lupus UK or the Lupus Research Alliance.
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