Pavarotti optimistic he can beat cancer

[KiwiCoromandel]

Luciano Pavarotti says he will remain optimistic till his death that he can overcome pancreatic cancer.

In a newspaper interview, Pavarotti is quoted as saying the cancer is punishment for his good fortune.

"I was a fortunate and happy man. After that, this blow arrived. And now I am paying the penalty for this fortune and happiness."

The Italian opera singer, 70, appeared to doze off in his wheelchair during the interview at his home near Pesaro, the paper said.

"I feel the tumor inside, I'm working on it ... However, I am and will be optimistic till death," he was quoted as saying.

In an upbeat interview published three weeks ago, the tenor said he intended to return to performing next year.

But during the latest interview, he said he couldn't even bear to hear himself sing anymore.

"If you invite me to dinner, and to please me, you put on one of my own recordings, I would walk out on you."

Doctors discovered a malignant pancreatic mass last month. Pavarotti had surgery, and his remaining concerts for this year were cancelled. He retired from staged opera in 2004.

source:AP

image:AP:Italian opera singer Luciano Pavarotti..

[cracklin' rosie]

I think this is one of the saddest articles I've read. Luciano Pavarotti has probably the finest voice in the world...and to not be able to bear listening to himself...how sad. I am holding a ticket for one of his concerts, but have a feeling he won't be performing again. It's a shame he sees his illness as punishment for a good life and happiness. I pray that God heals him!