A talented young artist's tragic final social media post has emerged as a stark warning about the devastating consequences of laughing gas addiction. Ellen Mercer, just 20 years old, spent her last days unable to walk after heavy nitrous oxide use caused catastrophic damage to her nervous system.
The Downward Spiral
Ellen's life unraveled rapidly after she became dependent on the substance, commonly known as 'hippy crack'. The aspiring artist, described as 'beautiful and clever' by her devastated family, was discovered in her bedroom in Isleworth, West London, on February 9th.
Her final Instagram story served as a chilling caution to others: "If you're thinking of trying it, just don't. Look at me. I can't even walk properly."
Medical Catastrophe
An inquest heard how Ellen's health deteriorated dramatically in the weeks before her death. She developed numerous physical problems including mobility issues, deep vein thrombosis, and burns from canisters - all linked to her nitrous oxide habit.
Pathologist Dr. Brett Lockyer confirmed the direct connection, stating: "The hypoxic brain injury and spinal system damage were directly caused by nitrous oxide use. She had been using 100-150 large canisters daily."
A Life Cut Short
Ellen's partner, George Cottrell, 25, described finding her unresponsive after what appeared to be a normal evening. Despite paramedics' efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
Her mother, Sharon Mercer, paid emotional tribute to her daughter: "Ellen was a beautiful, clever, funny and creative soul. We are utterly broken by her loss."
Growing Health Crisis
The coroner recorded a conclusion of misadventure, highlighting the severe vitamin B12 deficiency caused by nitrous oxide that led to subacute combined degeneration of the spinal cord.
This tragic case comes as authorities report increasing hospital admissions related to the substance, particularly among young people attracted by its legal status and availability.
Ellen's story serves as the most heartbreaking of warnings about the hidden dangers lurking within those silver canisters.
