The 59-year-old singer was originally planning on launching her tour June 5. That is, until an ornery kidney refused to cooperate.

Although Cole gained a functioning kidney in May, she also lost a family member. Her sister Carole died May 19, the same day the singer underwent the transplant.

Referring to the operation and losing her sister, Cole said she is mourning her loss, but is still able to celebrate her “new lease on life.”

Click here for the Natalie Cole Web site.