Cole 'makes emotional tribute to doctors'

[OMEN]

Cheryl Cole has made an emotional tribute to the doctors who treated her for malaria, it has been revealed.

The X Factor judge, who was discharged from hospital two weeks ago, thanked the tropical diseases medics for their efforts, reports The Mirror.

The 27-year-old said: "I want to say how grateful I am for everything you guys have done. I wouldn't be here now, if it wasn't for you."

A friend confirmed to the newspaper that Cole was fully aware of how life-threatening her condition had been in the hospital.

They said: "The situation was looking very bleak at one point. Her blood count was dangerously low, she had fluid on her lungs and she was jaundiced.

"But she was in the best possible place. The doctors there are first class and Cheryl knew afterwards she virtually owes her life to them."

The 'Parachute' singer was initially admitted to intensive care at West London's Cromwell Hospital, before being transferred to the tropical diseases unit led by Professor Peter Chiodini at University College London Hospital.

Cole is now believed to be considering whether to make a donation to the specialist team at UCLH.

The friend said: "It's something she's giving serious thought to. She is so grateful for their expertise and care."

DS