It’s terrible when you hear that such a talented person who brought so much joy to the world has passed away, especially when their passing is so sudden.

Whitney Houston hit the world stage in such an unbelievably strong way. Her voice had such clarity and transcended above any other voice at the time.

I recently watched the Body Guard a few months ago and could not believe how strong her voice was. I remember thinking, “Who has a voice like that now?” Plus, she was so incredibly beautiful!

Have you ever seen the footage of her singing in the choir when she was a teenager? You wanted her to succeed. She seemed so solid and strong.

When I heard she was doing another album a few years ago I was so happy for her. I worked with her stylist to design the jewellery for her album and tour. I wanted her to know how supportive I was of her. I decided to  write her a note telling her I was 19 years sober and knew how hard it is to fight addiction and I was wishing her the best.

I felt for her, her public decline and couldn’t imagine how hard it must be to deal with a broken life, having an addiction while the world scrutinized your every move. It was hard for me to watch it.

Everyone I knew rooted for her when she had her comeback  and they wanted her to succeed. I think her comeback was so anticipated because everyone was happy to have their “Whitney” back. I think she had become a part of our own individual history.

I was stunned and saddened to hear she has passed and I hope she is resting in peace after her long personal struggle.