Selena Gomez Praises Kidney Donor Francia Raisa, Downplays Rekindled Justin Bieber Romance

Selena Gomez has not had an easy year. After coming close to death in the midst of her ongoing battle with lupus, the star received a kidney transplant that changed her life.

Through it all, the “Wolves” singer has managed to release several hit records and remain the topic of conversation in the entertainment industry, earning her the award of Billboard’s 2017 Woman of the Year.

Gomez, who was introduced on stage by Elle Fanning and Francia Raisa at the Thursday night ceremony, couldn’t help but praise the “Grown-ish” actress, who donated her kidney in order to save the singer’s life.

“To be honest, I think Francia should be getting this award because she saved my life,” the “Bad Liar” artist said.

Gomez went on to thank those who stood by her side during her most challenging times. “I would like to thank my amazing team and family because they stuck with me through some really hard times,” she said.

“I couldn’t be more grateful for the position that I’ve been given in my career. I want people to know that I respect the platform that I have so deeply...I’ve never felt more proud to be a woman in this industry. I am so grateful for all the older women who have helped us up.”

Ahead of receiving her coveted award, Gomez told Billboard that she has a positive outlook on life after receiving her kidney transplant.

“I’m good. That whole experience made me look at life a little differently and I’m grateful for that. It feels good to be able to share my story the way I want to. I’m good, I’m really good,” she said.

Gomez’s new perspective also includes not caring what people think about her rekindled romance with Justin Bieber. The star revealed that she doesn’t think anyone “truly, actually cares” about what has gone on between her and Bieber over the last few years.

“It’s not really my concern anymore,” Gomez said about people having an opinion on how she should live her life.

“My family is great. My health is great. I love deeply, and I think that’s just who I am. I’m not really ashamed,” she said.

Since splitting with The Weeknd in October, Gomez’s reunion with Bieber has been met with mixed opinions but it’s clear that it’s going to take a lot more than a few harsh comments to break up their rekindled romance.