Despite earlier reports that Joni Mitchell was improving after her unexplained collapse and subsequent hospitalization, things aren’t looking so good for the famous folk musician. TMZ broke the news this afternoon, saying that Mitchell was “unconscious” and “unable to respond to anyone” at the hospital:
Joni’s close friend of 44 years, Leslie Morris, has just filed legal docs to obtain a conservatorship over the legendary singer. Morris says Joni told her she has no close relatives who could assume the role.
There’s been no official word from Mitchell’s reps on Twitter or on her official website. The latter includes a dated statement previously released on April 3rd:
Joni remains under observation in the hospital and is resting comfortably. We are encouraged by her progress and she continues to improve and get stronger each day.
Meanwhile, Variety included information about Mitchell’s history of smoking and medical complications, perhaps as a means of explanation:
Mitchell has smoked throughout her life, previously saying “six decades of smoking have robbed me of my voice.” She has also said that she suffers from Morgellons Disease, a medical mystery that includes lesions and irritable fibers underneath the skin.
Whatever the case may be, we wish Mitchell and her friends and family the best. We’ll provide updates as they become available.
UPDATE: Joni Mitchell’s official website released a statement saying that the bedridden singer is not in a coma as earlier reported.
Contrary to rumors circulating on the Internet today, Joni is not in a coma. Joni is still in the hospital – but she comprehends, she’s alert, and she has her full senses. A full recovery is expected. The document obtained by a certain media outlet simply gives her longtime friend Leslie Morris the authority – in the absence of 24-hour doctor care – to make care decisions for Joni once she leaves the hospital.
