Dame Felicity Lott has revealed that she has terminal cancer.

The legendary singer announced the news in a recent interview with the Observer noting that she learned of her illness weeks after arranging a charity auction of her gowns to raise money for hospices.

She told the Observer, “It’s quite ironic, really, because when I didn’t know that I was ill, I got in touch with the wonderful chief fundraiser… I thought maybe we could auction them in aid of the hospices. Then, blow me, you get signed up to the hospice yourself.”

Lott also noted that she has known of her disease for a year and was shocked.

For years Lott has performed on many of the great stages including the English National Opera, Glyndebourne, the Royal Opera House, and more. She is known for her interpretation of Pamina in Mozart’s “The Magic Flute” as well as her work with Richard Strauss’ opera and lieder.