...By Gift BADEWO for TDPel Media.
Remembering the Vibrant Performer
Tina Turner, the powerhouse behind countless unforgettable performances, appeared frail and in need of assistance during her last public outing.
The legendary singer’s vitality on stage was a stark contrast to her later years, demonstrating the toll of time and health struggles on even the most dynamic personalities.
Turner’s Passing and Last Public Appearances
Turner, who hailed from Tennessee, passed away on Wednesday at her home in Zurich, Switzerland, at the ripe age of 83.
Bernard Doherty, her publicist, confirmed her death following a prolonged illness.
Her final public appearance took place in November 2019 at the Broadway premiere of the musical about her life.
Pictures from the event depicted Turner seated most of the time, assisted by her husband, Erwin Bach, and friend Oprah Winfrey when walking the red carpet.
Her Last Year and Induction to the Hall of Fame
March 2021 captured Turner in her penultimate photo, as she attended the premiere of her HBO documentary.
She then shared her delight in her upcoming documentary, “TINA”, noting her excitement to relive some of the highlights of her career.
Seven months later, the world would catch a final glimpse of Turner when she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Due to her inability to attend the ceremony in Cleveland, Ohio, she recorded a heartfelt video message that was broadcast at the event.
Health Battles over the Years
Despite her undying spirit, Turner had been combating various health issues for a considerable period.
Diagnosed with hypertension in 1978, she admitted to never fully understanding its implications or managing the condition.
Unfortunately, the untreated hypertension culminated in a stroke in 2009, followed by another in 2013, shortly after her marriage to long-time partner, Bach.
This series of health events led her to reflect on the importance of daily, life-long medication.
Cancer Diagnosis and Transplant
Her health struggles didn’t end there. In 2016, she was diagnosed with intestinal cancer, leading to the removal of part of her intestine and exacerbating her kidney issues.
Following a disastrous attempt at homeopathic treatments, she suffered kidney failure.
In a profound act of love, Bach donated his kidney to his wife, resulting in a largely successful operation in April 2017.
However, Turner continued to experience symptoms and faced an uphill battle post-transplant, with her body attempting to reject the new organ.
