A young woman posted a warning about the dangers of laughing gas on social media just days before her death from the drug, it emerged today (thurs).

Talented make-up artist Amy Louise Leonard, 20, from Bolton, Greater Manchester, shared a video from the back of an ambulance on September 29.

The caption revealed she had been left unable to walk for three weeks because of her misuse of nitrous oxide.

Her devastated family are planning a pink-themed balloon release at Bolton Rugby Club on Saturday (October 11) at 5.45pm to celebrate her life.

Family and friends will listen to her favourite songs, before the balloons are let go.

In her final post, Amy - known to loved ones as Amy Lou - urged others to "put your balloons down" as she explained the toll "laughing gas" had taken on her health."

She wrote: "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."

"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 died away after suffering cardiac arrests. Doctors found a blood clot on her heart and lungs.

Her mum, Catrina Proctor, 39, said the family are still struggling to come to terms with the loss - but are determined to make sure 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 launched a fundraising page to help with funeral costs, which can be found here: https://www.gofundme.com/in-loving-memory-of-amy-lou-lou-lou

Catrina, who works at furniture retailer Dunelm, is determined to raise awareness of the deadly 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 is usually inhaled after being released into balloons from small silver canisters.

It gives a brief burst of euphoria lasting only seconds, but experts have warned that, in severe cases, it can lead to paralysis, clots or sudden death.

Nitrous oxide was reclassified as a Class C drug in 2023, meaning those caught using or supplying it can now face criminal charges.