Etta James Takes a Turn For the Worse

Terminally ill singer Etta James has been hospitalized and her condition is reportedly declining.

It was reported earlier this month that the singer was in poor health, and her live-in physician (Dr. Elaine James, no relation) confirmed that James was suffering from chronic leukemia and dementia. The “At Last” singer is reportedly so ill she can no longer communicate, restricted to simple nods and “uh huh” when speaking with her caregivers.

Yesterday, CNN tweeted that James had been transported from her home and live-in medical staff to a hospital, saying:

“An update on Etta James: Her manager tells CNN that she’s been taken to the hospital – her husband and sons are with her.”

Earlier this month, her reps released the following statement on the singer’s illnesses:

“Etta has a terminal illness. She’s in the final stages of leukemia. She has also been diagnosed with dementia and Hepatitis C. She’s in a home right now and mostly sleeps. She is under the care of a live-in doctor from Riverside Community Hospital and two others who have placed her on oxygen. Her husband is with her 24 hours a day, and her sons visit regularly. We’re all very sad. We’re just waiting.”

As James convalesces, her family remains locked in a legal battle over her estate. James’ husband and sons are currently disputing as to how to manage the singer’s affairs during her illness, as well as what will become of the considerations when the singer passes on. No updates have been given on James’ condition since the news she had been hospitalized.