Ryan Lewis (right) made the announcement to coincide with the launch of a fundraising project
Singer Ryan Lewis has revealed his mother, Julie Lewis, has been HIV positive for 30 years.
The 26-year-old, who collaborates with Macklemore, says she contracted HIV from a blood transfusion in 1984.
He made the revelation as he and Macklemore launched their 30/30 Project, external, which raises money for affordable healthcare around the world.
"In 1984, my mom gave birth to my older sister, Teresa," said a statement on the project's website.
"Due to a complicated delivery, she needed a blood transfusion and at that moment, my mom had HIV+ blood put into her body.
"When she was finally diagnosed, she was given only a few years to live."
Lewis also revealed that his mother did not know she had HIV when she was pregnant with him or his sister and they were fortunate to be born healthy despite a 25% risk of contracting it.
They are aiming to raise at least $100,000 (£60,000).
Explaining the name of the project Lewis added: "To honour the 30 years my mom has been a survivor, our family is raising funds to build health centres worldwide that will stand strong for at least 30 years."
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis won best new artist and best rap performance for their UK number one single Thrift Shop at this year's Grammy Awards.
The duo's debut album, The Heist, went to number 19 and spent 48 weeks in the Official Album Chart.
Lewis closed the statement by saying: "With this amazing past year I've had, I am honoured to be the first donor for the 30/30 Project, jumpstarting the construction of the first health centre in Malawi.
"I am asking you to join my family and see how far we can take this."
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