The family of Aretha Franklin have thanked fans for their continued support as the soul icon’s health continues to deteriorate.

Franklin, 76, known by all as the Queen of Soul, remains at her home in Detroit surrounded by her closest friends and family as he long battle against severe health problems takes another turn.

While her family confirmed the news that she is seriously ill, Franklin’s nephew Tim Franklin explained that the singer remains “good spirits” at home. “She’s alert, laughing, teasing, able to recognise 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.

“We believe she’ll pull through it, she believes she’ll pull through it, and that’s the important thing,” he added in a bid to remain optimistic.

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