Etta James’ Manager Speaks Out, “We’re all very sad. We’re just waiting.”

73-year-old Etta James, real name Jamesetta Hawkins, is reportedly ‘terminally ill.’ Two weeks ago, medical experts informed the singer that her chronic leukemia, was incurable. James’ physician explained:

“I am Southern and Christian and would just ask for the prayers of her fans and friends…They [Etta James’ fans] know she’s been sick, but not how sick. James is barely able to communicate at this point.”

James’ manager, Lupe De Leon, told Entertainment Weekly:

“Etta has a terminal illness. She’s in the final stages of leukemia. She has also been diagnosed with dementia and Hepatitis C. She’s in a home right now and mostly sleeps..She is under the care of a live-in doctor from Riverside Community Hospital (in Riverside, Calif.) and two others who have placed her on oxygen. Her husband is with her 24 hours a day, and her sons visit regularly. We’re all very sad. We’re just waiting.”

Meanwhile, hearings about James’ estate continue between her son (Artis Mills) and her husband (Donto James). The case questions if legal authority of her affairs should be transferred from her husband to her son. [E! Online & USA Today]