Pavarotti optimistic about battle against cancer

Luciano Pavarotti

Luciano Pavarotti says he will remain optimistic until his death that he can overcome pancreatic cancer.

An interview in an Italian newspaper quoted the star opera singer as saying that the cancer was punishment for his good fortune.

"I was a fortunate and happy man. After that, this blow arrived. And now I am paying the penalty for this fortune and happiness.

"I feel the tumour inside, I'm working on it ... However, I am and will be optimistic until death."