NATALIE COLE - COLE RETURNS TO STAGE AFTER KIDNEY TRANSPLANT

COLE RETURNS TO STAGE AFTER KIDNEY TRANSPLANT

NATALIE COLE wowed fans on Wednesday night (09Sep09) when she made a triumphant return to the stage for the first time since receiving a successful kidney transplant.
The 59-year-old singer performed at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, and stepped onstage to a standing ovation.
The star has battled ill health since she was diagnosed with Hepatitis C in 2008. She suffered kidney problems while undergoing treatment for the liver disease and was forced to have dialysis three times a week at her lowest point.
Cole spoke publicly about her need for a kidney transplant in April (09), and one fan donated her organ to the singer - giving her a new lease on life.
Now, four months after the life-saving surgery, Cole is looking forward to a long career ahead.
While preparing for the show last month (Aug09) she told People.com, "It's remarkable what a new kidney does to your life. I have no complaints. I'm pretty amazed. I have been working on my stamina."
Cole looked healthy and happy onstage in one-of-a-kind gowns she commissioned designer Lloyd Klein to create.