Woman, 20, warned about party drug days before her death

A young woman tragically lost her life due to the misuse of laughing gas, just days after she posted a stark warning about its dangers on social media. Amy Louise Leonard, a talented 20-year-old make up artist from Bolton, Greater Manchester, shared a chilling video from the back of an ambulance on September 29, revealing that her abuse of nitrous oxide had left her unable to walk for three weeks.

In a heart-wrenching tribute to celebrate her life, her devastated family is planning a pink-themed balloon release at Bolton Rugby Club on Saturday at 5.45pm. Loved ones will gather to listen to Amy's favourite songs before releasing the balloons into the sky.

In her final post, Amy - affectionately known as Amy Lou - implored others to "put your balloons down", as she detailed the devastating impact "laughing gas" had on her health. She penned: "I just wanna talk about balloons and what they are doing to your body. They can starve your brain of oxygen, cause dizziness, blackouts and accidents, lead to long-term nerve damage with repeated use, put serious strain on your heart and lungs.

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"It's easy to think it's just a quick buzz, but the risks are very real - and often underestimated and I am now hospitalised as I've not been able to walk for three weeks by doing these. All my calves are mashed up, my back has a nervous system what's failing and with this it's made me so depressed I've not been able to move absolutely anywhere and I'm in hospital now getting the help I need so put your balloons down because you'll only end up like me."

Just three days later, on October 2, Amy tragically passed away after suffering cardiac arrests. Doctors discovered a blood clot on her heart and lungs.

Her mum, Catrina Proctor, 39, said the family was still grappling with the loss, but was resolute to ensure Amy's message is heard.

She said: "Amy Lou was the life of the room and would always make people feel welcome, she was just so bubbly and happy."

The family set up a fundraising page to assist with funeral expenses. Catrina, who works at furniture retailer Dunelm, is committed to raising awareness of the lethal risks of balloons, which have become a popular high among young people across the UK.

She said: "Balloons are not harmless. What's wrong with just enjoying yourself with friends, without having to take drugs? What's wrong with a couple of wines and having a dance? This is not a good way to enjoy yourself - it only offers a three-second high."

She added: "I won't stop raising awareness of this issue, I don't ever want it to go away."

Nitrous oxide, typically inhaled from balloons filled from small silver canisters, provides a fleeting euphoria that lasts mere seconds. However, experts have issued stark warnings that severe cases can result in paralysis, clots or even sudden death.

In 2023, the government reclassified it as a Class C drug, meaning those found in possession or distributing it could face criminal charges.