According to Fox News, a source close to Aretha Franklin, has reported that the singer is ‘gravely ill.’
The 76-year-old “Respect” singer reportedly fell dangerously ill earlier this week. Sadly, this is not Franklin’s first health scare. According to CBS, in 2011, it was reported that Franklin was battling pancreatic cancer. In 2012, she told Anthony Mason of “CBS Sunday Morning,” that her health was “wonderful.”
Unfortunately, Franklin is hard on her health again and many are reporting that she is at home in hospice care.
In the wake of this news, celebrities like Mariah Carey, Paula Abdul, and Ciara are rallying behind her and offering prayers to the sensational soul singer.
This news has also rallied some other important people in Franklin’s life. Franklin, who is heavily influenced and inspired by gospel music, grew up in church. Franklin’s father was the minster at New Bethel Baptist Church earlier in her life. New Bethel Baptist Church, CBS reports, was where Franklin found her God given gift of singing. This was very important to Franklin so even as she began to develop as an artist, she maintained her gospel roots and influence.
The current pastor at New Bethel Baptist Church, Pastor Robert Smith Jr., opened up about Franklin, saying that the church is praying for her.
Pastor Smith got candid about Franklin according to CBS, saying “without Aretha, the church wouldn’t still be here.” Franklin never forgot her roots or her faith. Just a week ago, CBS reports, Franklin reached out to Pastor Smith about performing in the church’s annual benefit concert.
Smith went on to say that he is “asking God to continue this miracle because it’s great that she’s made it this long.”
According to Fox News, Franklin’s nephew, Tim Franklin, is reporting that she is “alert, laughing, teasing, and able to recognize people.” Franklin’s family is with her and is asking for prayers as she continues to fight.
Photo courtesy: GettyImages/Dimitrios Kambouris/Staff
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