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Local teenage singer dies from asthma attack

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A young local singer died over the weekend after suffering from an asthma attack, then cardiac arrest. Vanessa Johnson says her 18-year-old niece, Anna Abbott,  died on Saturday after her body gave up on her. 

Johnson said on June 28th Abbott was at a friend’s house when she suffered an asthma attack.

“The inhaler was depleted and wasn't working so by the time she had come back into the house, she knew she was in trouble,” said Johnson.

Abbott collapsed and her heart stopped. Abbott showed signs of recovering while in the hospital but after fighting for days, her weakened body couldn’t go on. Abbott died on Saturday.

“Ultimately it was took much damage to her body and to her brain,” said Johnson.

Abbott performed with the group Dilemma for the past year.

Those who know her said she was just blossoming into a great performing.

“There's a hole left and that can't really be filled,” said band mate Erik Shouse.

Abbott’s band members describe her as a strong, yet quiet leader.

“It's been really hard on everybody in the band,” said band mate John Staples.

“I think Anna helped to keep the group really relaxed, and really down to earth and rational,” said Shouse.

Johnson said Abbott shined brightest through song.

“She's was always singing, her 4th birthday and she got a Barbie karokee machine and she went nuts. She was a light-she was a joy,” said Johnson.

Dilemma said they will dedicate original songs to Abbott and said they are going to hold a benefit concert later this month to help raise money for the family. 

Here is a link to the Go Fund Me page to help the family out: https://www.gofundme.com/2c5qrdw