Melissa Etheridge expecting twins

Lesbian singer Melissa Etheridge is expecting twins.

The 44-year-old star - who has been beaten breast cancer after being diagnosed in 2004 - and actress partner Tammy Lynn Michaels announced thenews on her website.

She revealed: "We are thrilled to announce that Tammy is pregnant, andexpecting our twins sometime around this fall.

"To answer the obvious question: We used an anonymous donor from a bank."

Etheridge already has two children from a previous relationship with JulieCypher - a daughter, Bailey Jean, and son Beckett.

In the online statement, the couple added: "These are our first two babiesconceived together, but not our first time mothering together.

"For the past five years, we have been parenting two children from a previous time in Melissa's life. The twins will be a joyful addition to ourloving home."

The star and Michaels - best known for her acting in gay drama, 'The LWord' - tied the knot in Malibu in September 2003.

'Lucky' singer Etheridge also says Michaels has been a key part of her fightagainst cancer.

She revealed: "When it was over, I came home to a bouquet that said 'Insickness and in health,' and she means it.

"The love and support of someone like that is worth all the money in theworld."