Donna Summer: 'Believed dust particles from 9by11 blast gave her cancer'

Donna Summer: 'Believed dust particles from 9by11 blast gave her cancer'

Late legendary performer Donna Summer reportedly told friends that she believed the 9/11 attacks were responsible for her lung cancer.

Summer passed away from the disease yesterday (May 17) at the age of 63.

The star lived in an apartment near Ground Zero in New York City on the day of the tragedy in 2001, and allegedly believed that inhaling toxic dust particles led to her illness.

The legendary disco and soul singer would constantly spray disinfectant in the air in the months and years after 9/11, a source told TMZ.

Deney Terrio, 'Dance Fever' host, also revealed that Summer would often hang silk sheets in her dressing room in order to stop dust coming inside.

Yet another insider claims that Summer felt that the 9/11 events were an attack on Christianity, and that she was a target because of her religious beliefs.

Since 9/11, at least 55 rescue workers have died due to cancer, although several had already been diagnosed before the attacks. Since 9/11, 75 have been diagnosed with cancer, with over 18,000 people claiming that they have fallen ill due to inhaling toxic dust particles.

Stars like Kylie Minogue, Nicki Minaj and Ryan Seacrest were among a host of celebrities who have spoken out in tribute to the late singer.