Selena Gomez reveals she had a kidney transplant

Selena Gomez has stunned her fans by revealing that she underwent a kidney transplant during the US summer. 

The singer took to Instagram on Thursday to share details about her surgery, which she had undergone as a result of her lupus.

She revealed that her best friend Francia Raisa donated her kidney.

"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. 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," she wrote.

Selena shared a picture of herself holding hands with Francia in hospital as they prepared for their surgery.

She also shared a picture of her post-surgery scar. The 25-year-old thanked her "beautiful friend" and family for supporting her. 

"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."

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes a number of symptoms, including joint swelling and fatigue. Selena was diagnosed with the condition in 2015.

Selena says lupus "continues to be very misunderstood but progress is being made".

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