Natalie Cole Gets a New Kidney

R&B singer Natalie Cole has been battling kidney problems and struggling to treat her Hepatitis C since last July. Yesterday, Cole, 59, underwent a kidney transplant at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles.

Although the 59-year-old singer hoped that her son, Robert, might be a potential donor, the kidney came from an expired organ donor, according to People.com.

Cole, who disclosed her diagnosis of Hepatitis C last year, claimed that she most likely developed the disease from drug use that occurred over 30 years ago, according to Reuters.

The singer reportedly toured the world while facing a kidney dialysis three times a week since September. However, Cole plans to reschedule her summer tour dates in promoting her album, Still Unforgettable, while recovering for the next three to four months, reported Reuters.

Cole has received nine Grammys, including the two most recent awards she won in 2009 for best traditional pop vocal album for Still Unforgettable and best instrumental arrangements for "Here's That Rainy Day."