Despite being born with cystic fibrosis, Alice Martineau was determined to succeed. After graduating from college, the pretty blond pursued a career in modeling. She hid her health condition from prospective modeling agencies by arriving very early for interviews so not appear “winded” or tired. She posed for print ads as opposed to runway or catwalk modeling.
Believing that her limited breathing capacity would hinder any chance of a singing career, she discovered that her chronic coughing had actually strengthened her diaphragm. She took extensive singing lessons and gave live performances in her native London on a regular basis. Alice received many offers for recording, but most were withdrawn when it was discovered that she was seriously ill. Nevertheless, she released a single in 2002 to positive reviews and critical praise. A follow-up single was canceled due to her poor health.
Alice passed away on the morning of March 6, 2003, while on a waiting list for a heart, lung and liver transplant. She was 30.