Israel Kamakawiwo’ole, also known as IZ, passed away on June 26, 1997, at the age of 38. His death was a result of various health complications, primarily related to his obesity and excessive weight.
IZ had been struggling with health issues for most of his life, mainly due to his obesity. He weighed around 757 pounds (343 kg) at the time of his passing. This excessive weight put a considerable strain on his body and led to numerous medical conditions.
One of the major health problems IZ faced was respiratory issues. His obesity contributed to the development of severe sleep apnea, where his breathing would periodically stop during sleep. This condition further deteriorated his overall health and made his breathing increasingly difficult.
To address his respiratory problems, IZ required continuous medical assistance, including the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. This device helped keep his airways open and enabled him to breathe more easily. However, despite these interventions, his health continued to decline.
Additionally, IZ suffered from other obesity-related complications, such as heart disease and diabetes. These conditions further weakened his body and ultimately contributed to his untimely death.
On June 26, 1997, IZ experienced a sudden respiratory failure and was rushed to the Queen’s Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. Unfortunately, his condition was too critical, and he passed away later that day.
Israel Kamakawiwo’ole’s death serves as a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of obesity on one’s health. His passing left a void in the music world, but his legacy and influential music continue to inspire and touch the hearts of many.
