Natalie Cole [ tickets ] issued a statement yesterday (6/9) thanking her fans for the well wishes she has received since undergoing her kidney transplant and the death of her sister, Carol, on May 19.

"My family and I want to express our extreme appreciation for the outpouring of kindness we have received from all over the country," Cole said in the statement. "In the midst of sorrow I am still able to celebrate my new lease on life."

Cole is expected to spend the summer recuperating from the surgery. She plans to go back on the road in the fall. Tour dates effected by her medical problems are being rescheduled. Her first post-surgery appearance will be Sept. 9 at the Hollywood Bowl.