15 Years Without Amy Winehouse: Her Mom Reveals How She Copes with Grief

It's been 15 years since Amy Winehouse died on July 23, 2011, from accidental alcohol poisoning at age 27. But time doesn't heal all wounds, especially for those who loved her most. Her mother, Janis Winehouse, has found her own way to deal with the loss.

In an interview with The i Paper, Janis reflected on her daughter's life, calling her "a victim of her own success." Amy rose to fame with albums Frank and Back to Black, winning six Grammys including Best New Artist and Record of the Year for Rehab. But she never wanted fame: "She didn't want it, but it just followed her. She'd be like, 'Who, me?'"

According to the 72-year-old mother, behind Amy's powerful stage presence was insecurity: "She was actually nervous. Hence the alcohol. Many addicts drink to numb the pain." Sadly, addiction cut Amy's life short.

How does Janis cope after all these years? Her answer is surprising: "I'm just getting on with it. I live life." She also honors Amy through charity. After her daughter's death, Janis co-founded the Amy Winehouse Foundation, which helps young people build self-esteem. The foundation also runs a women's recovery home called Amy's Place in London.

Amy's stepmother, Jane Winehouse, noted that Amy would love the women at the recovery home: "Everyone here is so real. To engage in recovery, you have to get real. You connect on a visceral level."

Hard to believe it's been 15 years. Our thoughts are with the family. If you or someone you know struggles with addiction, help is available at SAMHSA (samhsa.gov) or StartYourRecovery.org.