On the eve of what would have marked Amy Winehouse's 40th birthday, the world is reminded of the profound talent and tragic end of the iconic singer.
Winehouse, globally celebrated for her soulful voice and hits like "Back To Black," passed away at the tender age of 27. Her death, which occurred on 23 July 2011 in her Camden, north London residence, was a result of alcohol poisoning.
The evening before her tragic end, Winehouse had a poignant conversation with her doctor, Dr. Christina Romete. The singer, who had been grappling with substance abuse issues for years, had recently resumed heavy drinking.
During Dr. Romete's visit to Winehouse's home, the singer candidly admitted to her relapse after a significant period of sobriety. The most heart-wrenching revelation from their conversation was Winehouse's confession: "I don't want to die."
Dr. Romete, reflecting on their interaction, described Winehouse as "one of the most intelligent young women I’ve ever met." She highlighted the singer's fierce independence, even in her approach to therapy. On that fateful night, Winehouse seemed "calm and somewhat guilty," according to Dr. Romete. While she was slightly inebriated, she was coherent enough to engage in a meaningful conversation.
Winehouse confessed to having resumed drinking on July 20, a mere three days before her death. When probed about her intentions to quit alcohol again, she responded with uncertainty, simply stating, "I don't know."
Throughout their professional relationship, Dr. Romete had consistently advised Winehouse about the severe repercussions of alcohol on one's health. This included potential respiratory depression leading to death, cardiac issues, fertility complications, and liver diseases.
The subsequent inquest at St Pancras Coroner’s Court in London determined that Winehouse's death was due to "accidental alcohol poisoning." The verdict was labeled as death resulting from misadventure. Shockingly, the alcohol content in Winehouse's blood was measured at 416mg per 100ml, significantly surpassing the 350mg recognized as lethal. Further investigations revealed three empty vodka bottles at her residence.
The day following her last night, which she spent watching television and enjoying music in her bedroom, Winehouse's lifeless body was discovered by her security guard, Andrew Morris. He found her unresponsive with no signs of life at around 3 pm.
A subsequent inquest in 2013, necessitated due to an administrative oversight, concurred with the initial findings regarding the cause of her death. As fans worldwide commemorate Winehouse on her would-be 40th birthday, her original band has announced a special tribute show in her honor.
