Following rumors that soul sensation Aretha Franklin was in grave condition, her family have confirmed that she is seriously ill, adding that they appreciate the love and support from her fans.
Aretha’s publicist Gwendolyn Quinn told People magazine: “Aretha Franklin has been the Matriarch of the Franklin family since the passing of all of her siblings. The love she has for her family is above reproach and was evident in the warm smiles she was able to share with her nephew during his very brief visit two weeks ago.
“She is seriously ill and surrounded by family members who appreciate the outpouring of love and support they have received.”
Although reports have said she is preparing to say her goodbyes, her nephew Tim Franklin remains optimistic.
“She’s alert, laughing, teasing, able to recognize people. Family is there with her. She’s home. I saw her a week ago Friday and we talked for about 45 minutes to an hour,” he said. “My brother was there on Saturday and she was alert, talking, laughing, joking.”
He added: “We believe she’ll pull through it, she believes she’ll pull through it, and that’s the important thing.”
Her fans across the world are hopeful that she will pull through it too.
