Avril Lavigne returns to the stage to sing 'Fly' at Special Olympics Opening Ceremony

Avril Lavigne returned to the stage Saturday for her first performance in more than a year, singing “Fly” during the Special Olympics World Games Opening Ceremony in Los Angeles.

Lavigne, who revealed earlier this year that she’s been battling Lyme disease, said on Instagram that she was “honored” to take part in the ceremony.

“This was a very beautiful night for me. Congratulations to all the athletes,” she wrote, adding, “It has been a difficult year fighting through Lyme Disease for me and I am so happy to have made it on stage tonight for the first performance in a year. Thank you for having me and please enjoy my song Fly. I wrote this song to encourage people who are facing challenges, to encourage strength and to empower.”

On Twitter, she added, “Thanks to all my fans for supporting FLY and for all the love tonight. You guys are the best.”

A day earlier, she posted another photos from rehearsals:

Proceeds from Lavigne’s “Fly” benefit the Special Olympics. You can watch the music video for the song below.

•Avril Lavigne is ‘excited for life after’ Lyme disease

•Avril Lavigne opens up about Lyme disease battle: ‘I thought I was dying’